Postdoctoral Researcher position in the Laboratory of Protein Structure

The Laboratory of Protein Structure at the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IIMCB), Warsaw, headed by Prof. Marcin Nowotny, seeks a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join a project that aims at elucidation of the mechanisms of plastid genome packaging.

You will work on the project funded by NAWA BPN/NSF/2023/1/00011 entitled: “IMPRESS-U DCL: Supplement: Structure and function of plastid nucleoid.” as part of the initiative „International Multilateral Partnerships for Resilient Education and Science System in Ukraine IMPRESS-U”.

The deadline for applications is November 2^nd, 2026. Job starting date is January 1^st, 2027 or as soon as possible after this date.

As a postdoctoral researcher you will be responsible for establishing the currently unknown mechanisms of DNA packaging in plastids. The tasks will involve purification of proteins involved in this process and their biochemical and structural studies using cryo-EM and protein crystallography.

Requirements for the candidate

1. Holds PhD in Biology, Biotechnology, Medicine or equivalent field. Candidates with degrees in other fields including Engineering, Computer science, Physics will also be considered if they have relevant experience.
2. Has experience in protein biochemistry/purification (particularly for nucleic acid enzymes), knowledge of crystallography and/or cryo-EM will be a plus
3. Has strong written and oral communication skills in English
4. Has good presentation skills (ideally having presented during at least one international conference).
5. Enjoys working in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
6. Has published at least one publication as the first author in an international peer-reviewed journal.
7. High motivation and proactive and collaborative attitude

Selection criteria

1. Technical competence, experience and fit of the expertise to the position.
2. Scientific achievements - publications, awards, grants, etc.
3. Soft skills – command of English language, motivation letter, communication skills, teamwork, likelihood to fit to the group, compatibility of plans for individual development with the goals of the group.

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.

We offer

1. Full employment contract initially for 6 months with a possible extension.
2. Full-time salary 9 700 gross per month.
3. Position with 100% focus on research (no teaching obligations).
4. Additional bonuses such as the 13th salary after working for the Institute for six months in a given calendar year, or Christmas bonus may supplement this salary.
5. Benefits including reduced-rate for an individual private medical care package and membership in the MultiSport programme.
6. Full technical, administrative and organizational support from professional English-speaking personnel.
7. Participation in courses, scientific training, support from peers, and academic mentoring.

How to apply

1. Apply now via system eRecruiter: eRecruiter application form
2. Your application must be submitted in English and should contain a CV including a full list of publications, a motivation letter with description of your key achievements, and contact details (e-mail and telephone number) of least two potential referees, including one of your direct supervisor.
3. 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 personal data processing information link.
4. Procedure for reporting irregularities, taking follow-up actions, and protecting whistleblowers: whistleblowing procedure

The competition may be extended until a suitable candidate who fulfils all requirements is found.