Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laboratory of RNA Viruses

Postdoctoral Researcher in the Laboratory of RNA Viruses

The Laboratory of RNA Viruses (website) at the International Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology (IIMCB), Warsaw, led by Dr. Stefan Bresson, is seeking a highly motivated, creative, and independent Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team. The position is funded by the National Science Centre (NCN) under the SONATA BIS project no. 2024/54/E/NZ6/00119, titled: “Unravelling the Mechanisms of Gene Expression of Hepatitis A Virus.”

The ideal candidate should be able to pursue challenging tasks and achieve objectives and collaborate with other researchers. Candidates will be selected in an open competition, according
to the procedure complying with the rules of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code
of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers as a part of HR Excellence in Research Strategy https://shorturl.at/f2CpW

The deadline for applications is 30.09.2025. Start of employment is 01.11.2025 or later.

About the project:

Our research focuses on the gene regulatory strategies used by the Hepatitis A virus, a model picornavirus and important human pathogen. In this project, you will use high-throughput proteomic approaches to investigate viral protein synthesis and turnover. In parallel, the resulting datasets can also be used to study the regulation of host cell gene expression during the course of infection. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to learn cutting-edge molecular biology techniques, including mass spectrometry and Ribo-seq.

Key responsibilities:

• Design and conduct experiments in molecular biology, biochemistry, and cellular assays related to viral gene expression and the host antiviral response.
• Employ high-throughput proteomics and sequencing approaches
• Actively contribute to project development, including proposing and testing novel research hypotheses.
• Prepare manuscripts, present results at scientific meetings, and contribute to funding applications.
• Collaborate with team members and mentor junior researchers in the lab.

Candidate profile:

We are looking for a candidate with strong scientific curiosity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to drive research independently while actively engaging with the scientific community. The ideal candidate should demonstrate an eagerness to explore new areas related to viral gene expression and be proactive in developing research directions aligned with the project's goals.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.
• Fulfillment of formal criteria outlined in paragraph 2, point 2.1.1 of the NCN regulations (link).
• Strong publication record, demonstrating expertise relevant to the project.
• Experience in molecular biology and biochemical techniques.
• Expertise in cell cultures or virology work is highly advantageous.
• Familiarity with computational approaches for data analysis is a plus.
• Ability to design and execute experiments independently and interpret results critically.
• Proactive approach, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative attitude.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral.

What we offer:

· Full-time employment contract, initially for 6 months, with the possibility of extension until the end of the project.

· Competitive salary starting from 8400 PLN gross/month.

· A dynamic and supportive research environment within an internationally recognized institute.

· Professional development opportunities, including:

o Participation in courses, scientific seminars, and international conferences.

o Funding for postdoctoral training and professional courses.

o Mentorship and assistance in applying for independent research grants (e.g., NCN).

Selection criteria:

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Education and formal qualifications.
2. Technical expertise and relevance of experience to the project.
3. Scientific achievements (e.g., publications, awards, grants, international collaborations).
4. Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
5. Soft skills, including:

o Clarity and impact of motivation letter.

o Communication and teamwork abilities.

o Organizational and time-management skills.

o Compatibility with the research group’s goals and vision.

How to apply:

• Apply now via erecruiter system:  erecruiter
• Your application must be submitted in English and should contain a CV, a motivation letter,
  a description of your key achievements and contacts to at least two potential referees, including one of your supervisors.
• Please include the following statement in your CV: “I hereby agree to the processing of my personal data, included in the application documents by the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, 4 Księcia Trojdena Street, 02-109 Warsaw, for the purpose of carrying out the current recruitment process.”

Your personal data will be processed for the purpose of the recruitment procedure
by the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw. Full information
is available under the link https://bit.ly/3UFWpY2

• Procedure for reporting irregularities, taking follow-up actions, and protecting whistleblowers: https://shorturl.at/u2mww  
• The competition may be extended until a suitable candidate who fulfils all requirements
  is found.

If you have questions about further details, please email sbresson@iimcb.gov.pl