Postdoctoral Researcher position (role in the project Junior Postdoctoral Researcher)

Postdoctoral Researcher position (role in the project Junior Postdoctoral Researcher)
 

Recruitment for the project “RNA and Cell Biology Platform for Research and Innovation in Medicine (RACE-PRIME)” (grant agreement no. FENG.02.01-IP.05-T003/23) implemented within the framework of the International Research Agendas funded by the European Funds for Smart Economy programme, for the position of Junior Postdoctoral Researcher to carry out research work in the cell biology area under the direction of Prof. Marta Miączyńska, head of the Laboratory of Cell Biology
at the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw (IIMCB), in collaboration
with Prof. Wojciech Pokrzywa (Laboratory of Protein Metabolism).

The main objective of RACE-PRIME is to transform the IIMCB into a world-class center of excellence in RNA and cell biology. The premise of RACE-PRIME is the translational use of the results of basic research, e.g. to develop the premise of new therapies, diagnostic methods, discover new therapeutic objectives or to identify molecules with desirable properties so that they can be developed into medications.

Description of the project area:

We are seeking a researcher to investigate protein turnover and dysfunction of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in selected rare human diseases. The project focuses on modeling pathological processes related to disturbed proteostasis using Caenorhabditis elegans, patient-derived cell lines, and mammalian cellular systems. In addition to dissecting disease mechanisms at the molecular and cellular level, the research includes drug repurposing approaches and phenotypic screening to identify compounds that can restore proteostasis. The overall aim is to uncover novel therapeutic strategies by studying the dynamics of protein degradation, stress responses, and inter-tissue signaling in genetically tractable models.

Job description:

The Postdoctoral Researcher will be responsible for employing a range of molecular, genetic, and imaging techniques to assess alterations in protein homeostasis and UPS function in disease models. Tasks will include experimental design and execution in C. elegans, cell lines, and patient-derived samples, implementation of high-content screening assays, and integration of data from omics analyses.

Requirements for the candidate:

1. Possesses a Ph.D. in biological sciences or related field obtained within the past 5 years; however, the 5-year period is calculated from the year of obtaining the Ph.D., or plans
   to defend his/her dissertation prior to the start of employment (planned date is 01.07.2025
   or later).
2. Has solid knowledge and documented laboratory experience in molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, or genetics.
3. Demonstrates experience or strong interest in the field of protein homeostasis, neurodegeneration, rare diseases, or ubiquitin-mediated processes.
4. Previous experience working with Caenorhabditis elegans is highly desirable; knowledge of genetic manipulation and phenotypic analyses in this model is a strong asset.
5. Shows readiness to learn new skills and take on challenges, has initiative, works independently, and possesses strong analytical thinking.
6. Has excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
7. Has the ability to draft scientific papers for peer-reviewed journals in English.
8. Communicates complex scientific ideas clearly, both orally and in writing, in English.
9. Has experience in scientific presentation (ideally including at least one international conference).
10. Publications in international peer-reviewed journals.

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 team, compatibility of plans for individual development with the goals of the project.

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 the HR Excellence in Research strategy: https://shorturl.at/fjot2

We offer:

1. Full employment contract initially for 6 months with further extension
2. Competitive salary from 8 740 PLN gross/month to 10 280 PLN gross/month (depending on experience).
3. Benefits including reduced-rate individual private medical care and membership in the MultiSport programme.
4. Full technical, administrative, and organizational support from professional English-speaking personnel.
5. Participation in courses, scientific trainings, and support from peers.

Deadline for applications is June 22^nd, 2025. Job starting date is July 1^st, 2025 or later.

How to apply:

1. Apply now via erecruiter e-recruiter
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 link https://bit.ly/3UFWpY2
4. 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.