Research specialist position (role in the project: Technician)

Research specialist position (role in the project: Technician)

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  Research specialist 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. Cecilia Winata (Laboratory of Zebrafish Developmental Genomics).

The aim of RACE-PRIME is to establish IIMCB as a world-class Center of Excellence in RNA and Cell Biology. The goal of RACE-PRIME is to translate basic research findings, e.g., for developing new therapies, diagnostic methods, discovering new therapeutic targets, or identifying molecules with desired properties to be developed into drugs.

Description of the project area: 

The proposed project aims to study the human MED13/MED13L syndrome using a combination of in vivo and in vitro model systems. MED13 and its paralog MED13L are part of the kinase module of the Mediator complex essential for transcription regulation in eukaryotes. Disruptions in MED13/MED13L alter this function, causing two rare developmental disorders with overlapping symptoms: congenital defects, facial dysmorphia, muscle hypotonia, behavioral issues, and intellectual disability. However, despite their critical role, there are still large knowledge gaps in the understanding of their molecular mechanism and function.

Job description:

In order to dissect into the complexity of the MED13/MED13L syndrome, we will create zebrafish and human iPSC models with loss of function for these genes and use a multi-omics approach to study their developmental roles. The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing the mutant models and characterizing them using a combination of genomics (RNA-seq and ATAC-seq) and morphological assessments (e.g. gene expression analysis, fluorescent microscopy, histology). Besides establishing valuable tools and resources for future investigations of MED13/MED13L biology, the multi-model approach is envisaged to provide critical insights into the functional mechanism of MED13/MED13L in regulating embryonic development and the pathogenesis of the associated syndromes.

Requirements:

1. MSc degree in biological sciences or related field.
2. Strong understanding of the principles of cell and molecular biology, genetics, and/or developmental biology.
3. Basic hands-on laboratory work experience in one of the fields: molecular biology, genomics, epigenetics, or genetic engineering.
4. Prior experience or knowledge in next generation sequencing, bioinformatics, and working with zebrafish and/or iPSCs would be an advantage.
5. Independence, commitment, initiative, teamwork skills.
6. Proficiency in spoken and written English.

Selection criteria:

1. Technical competencies, experience and alignment of specialized knowledge with the position.
2. Scientific achievements.
3. Soft skills - proficiency in English, motivation letter, communication skills, teamwork ability, alignment of individual development plans with project goals.

Candidates will be selected through an open competition, in accordance with the principles set out in the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers, which are part of the HR Excellence in Research strategy. https://shorturl.at/fjot2

We offer:

1. Full-time employment contract, initially for a period of 6 months with the possibility of extension.
2. Competitive salary in the amount of 6000 PLN gross/month.
3. Attractive benefits package including subsidization for MultiSport card and medical insurance.
4. Full technical, administrative, and organizational support in Polish and English from professional staff.
5. Opportunity to participate in courses, conferences, scientific training, and substantive support from colleagues.
6. Opportunity to do a PhD in an extramural form.

Applications can be submitted until October 31^st, 2024. The proposed start date of employment is December 1^st, 2024 or later.

How to apply:

1. Please send your applications to the email address: recruitment@iimcb.gov.pl
2. In the email subject line, please include the following information: "CELL 7 Technician MAB" followed by your first and last name.
3. Applications should be submitted in English. The application should include a CV,
   list of achievements, a motivation letter describing key scientific achievements, and contact details (email and phone number) of at least two potential referees, including your direct supervisor.
4. Please include the following statement in your CV: "I hereby give consent for my personal data included in the application documents to be processed by the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, ul. Ks. Trojdena 4, 02-109 Warsaw, for the purpose of carrying out the recruitment process." Full information is available at https://bit.ly/3ObTUdJ.
5. Procedure for reporting irregularities, taking follow-up actions, and protecting whistleblowers: https://shorturl.at/u2mww

The competition may be extended until a candidate meeting all requirements is found.