Postdoctoral Researcher (role in the project Junior Postdoctoral Researcher) in the Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology

Postdoctoral Researcher (role in the project Junior Postdoctoral Researcher) in the Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology

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 Postdoctoral Researcher (role in the project: Junior Postdoctoral Researcher) to carry out research work under the direction of Prof. Jacek Jaworski, head of the Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology.

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

Project description: Rare neurodevelopmental disorders are frequently associated with severe neurological symptoms, yet the mechanisms linking specific genetic alterations to neuronal dysfunction remain incompletely understood. This is particularly true for MED13L syndrome, whereas in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), despite the well-established central role of mTORC1 hyperactivation, there is still a major need to identify additional disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets that could complement or improve upon current mTOR-directed treatments.

In this project, you will generate and characterize human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based models of TSC and MED13L syndrome and differentiate them into relevant neural cell types. Using molecular, cellular and functional approaches, you will investigate how disease-causing mutations affect neuronal development, maturation and function. In the MED13L models, the work will focus on defining the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the neurological phenotype. In the TSC models, particular emphasis will be placed on identifying disease-relevant pathways and vulnerabilities beyond canonical mTORC1 signaling.

The long-term goal is to uncover mechanisms that contribute to neuronal dysfunction in these disorders and to identify potential points of therapeutic intervention for the development of future targeted and precision medicine approaches. For more information about our laboratory and research, please visit our laboratory websites:  Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology and Laboratory of Zebrafish Developmental Genomics.

Requirements for the candidate:

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 30.09.2026 or later).

 2.  Has solid knowledge and documented laboratory experience in molecular and cellular neurobiology and rare disease research.

3.   Experience with culturing primary and human-derived neurons, work with iPSC-cells, analysis of neuronal morphology and physiology, advanced light microscopy, and basic methods in molecular and cell biology is strictly required.

4.   Has excellent interpersonal skills, initiative, and ability to work independently and in a high-performance team.

5.   Has the ability to draft (in English) scientific papers for academic journals.

6.   Has the ability to communicate (in English) complex information clearly, orally and in writing.

7.   Has good presentation skills (ideally having presented during at least one international conference).

8.   At least one publication in an international peer-reviewed journal.

Selection criteria

Technical competence, experience and fit of the expertise to the position.

Scientific achievements - publications, awards, grants, etc.

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

Full employment contract initially for 6 months.

Full-time salary starting from 9 700 gross per month.

Position with 100% focus on research (no teaching obligations).

Position with 100% focus on research (no teaching obligations).

Benefits including reduced-rate for an individual private medical care package and membership in the MultiSport programme.

Full technical, administrative and organizational support from professional English-speaking personnel.

Participation in courses, scientific training, support from peers, and academic mentoring.

Deadline for applications is August 15th, 2026. Job starting date is October 1st, 2026.

How to apply

Apply now via system eRecruiter: eRecruiter system

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.

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.

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.