PhD student position in the Laboratory of Cellular Proteostasis

The newly created Laboratory of Cellular Proteostasis at the International  Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IIMCB) https://shorturl.at/FkI31, Warsaw, headed by Lidia Wrobel, PhD is looking for a PhD student.

You will join the project entitled “Nuclear protein quality control in neurodegeneration” carried out as the Sonata project (2023/51/D/NZ3/01939) financed of the National Science Centre, Poland.

The project aims to understand the mechanisms governing mammalian protein quality control (PQC), focusing on the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in the nucleus. With the use of cutting-edge protein trafficking assays combined with quantitative mass spectrometry, state-of-the-art microscopy and biochemical methods, we aim to identify, characterise and define novel factors and pathways key for protein trafficking and degradation in the nucleus. By using a variety of cellular models, from established cell lines to human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons, we aim to broaden our understanding of the nuclear UPS and how it is affected in neurodegeneration.

As a PhD student you will be responsible for performing experiments using cellular models (including iPSC-derived neurons), analyzing protein trafficking using quantitative mass spectrometry, modifying gene expression using CRISPR/Cas9-based methodology, using variety of molecular and biochemical techniques (including studying protein-protein interactions and modifications), collaborate with team members, perform literature research, participate in lab meetings and activities, write publications, and participating in the mandatory activities of the Doctoral School.

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 26^th July 2024; deadline for sending application is 9^th August, 2024). 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. 124/2022 dated December 1, 2022), 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 biology, biochemistry or related field
• Solid knowledge in at least one of the following disciplines: molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience
• Understanding of mechanisms important for cellular proteostasis
• Basic hands-on experience in one of the fields: molecular biology, cell biology, fluorescent microscopy
• Prior experience in working with human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons would be an advantage but not essential
• Interested in cellular proteostasis and neurodegeneration
• Written and spoken fluency in English
• Willingness to learn and take new challenges, ability to work independently, analytical thinking
• Good interpersonal skills and a collaborative attitude

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 9^th August, 2024. The winter semester at the Doctoral School shall begin on 1^st October, 2024.

How to apply:

• Apply via website https://shorturl.at/cJKQY (the application system will be activated from 26^th July, 2024; deadline for sending application is 9^th August, 2024). 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