PhD Student position in the Laboratory of Protein Metabolism

Laboratory of Protein Metabolism at the International Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology (IIMCB), Warsaw, headed by Dr. Wojciech Pokrzywa https://shorturl.at/muyAZ , is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated PhD Student to contribute to a pioneering project titled "Adaptation of Proteins to Avoid Premature Degradation by the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System".

This project aims to generate breakthrough knowledge about the role and mechanisms of selected ubiquitin ligases, a key aspect of cellular regulation and homeostasis. The position is funded by SONATA-BIS grant no. 2021/42/E/NZ1/00190 of the National Science Centre.

About the Project:

The project will involve generating and optimizing new techniques based on proximity labeling and NanoBRET system in C. elegans to identify specific substrates for selected ubiquitin ligases and investigate their physiological roles. The successful candidate will gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques such as molecular biology methods, generation of transgenic animals, mass spectrometry, and imaging techniques. Additionally, some of the research will be conducted using cell culture methods in collaboration with a Postdoc working on this project, thus providing a holistic research experience.

The literature relevant to the project, which candidates are strongly advised to get familiar with, involves:

• https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.01.18.524605v1
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36336956/
• https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.05.19.492622v1

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35762422/

As a PhD Student you will be responsible for planning and conducting  experiments pertaining to the project goals, analyzing data and contributing to the development and progress of the project.

The admissions process is conducted through the Doctoral School website system. The PhD student can apply to this specific project carried out as part of the Warsaw-4-PhD doctoral school via website https://shorturl.at/cJKQY  (the application system will be activated from 29^th July, 2023; deadline for sending application is 11^th August, 2023). For more information, please follow the link https://shorturl.at/mvxOR

Candidates will be selected according to the procedure complying the rules for granting scholarships for young scientists in research projects funded by the National Science Centre (NCN Council Resolution No. 25/2019 dated March 14, 2019 r.), recruitment procedure for the Warsaw-4-PhD and 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://bit.ly/3U0dydP

Requirements for the candidate:

• MSc degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, or a related field.
• Strong foundation in molecular biology methods.

• Experience with C.elegans, cell culture, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, mass spectrometry, and imaging techniques is desirable.
• Proven ability to work independently. A proactive approach to achieving objectives, collaborative and adaptive attitude.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to write high-quality scientific reports and manuscripts.

We offer: 

1. Full-time PhD scholarship 4 years (8 semesters) in amount:
2. a) before the mid-term evaluation 4500 pln net/month;
3. b) after mid-term evaluation 5000 pln net/month
4. Position with 100% focus on research (no teaching obligations)
5. Benefits including reduced-rate for an individual private medical care package and membership in 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

Deadline for applications is 11^th August, 2023. The winter semester at the Doctoral School shall begin on 1^st October, 2023.

How to apply:

• Apply via website https://shorturl.at/cJKQY (the application system will be activated from 29^th July, 2023; deadline for sending application is 11^th August, 2023). If you have any enquiries about the recruitment process or the project, please send your request to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Please include the following statement in your email: “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

Why Join Our Lab:

Our laboratory pokrzywalab.com provides a stimulating environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities. The successful candidate will be part of a multidisciplinary team that values collaboration and innovative thinking. They will gain invaluable research experience and skills while contributing to a significant and growing field of study.

If you're motivated, independent, and ready to embark on a captivating scientific journey, we invite you to apply. We look forward to your expertise and knowledge enriching our lab and this project.

We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified candidates. This position offers equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of their gender, race, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.

Elevate your research career with us. Apply today!