Recruitment for a Master's Thesis Project in the Structural Biology Laboratory

The Structural Biology Laboratory (https://mrslab.ug.edu.pl/) at the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of the University of Gdańsk and the Medical University of Gdańsk (IFB UG & MUG) is seeking a motivated Master's student to participate in the FIRST TEAM FENG project entitled "Superpolymerase: development and application of a novel isothermal DNA amplification method." The project is led by Prof. Michał R. Szymański (Principal Investigator) and funded by the Foundation for Polish Science under the FIRST TEAM programme, co-financed by the European Union through the European Funds for a Modern Economy (FENG) Programme 2021-2027.

Project description:

DNA polymerases are among the most important enzymes in biology, responsible for copying and preserving genetic information. Our laboratory recently discovered that a DNA polymerase encoded by a bacteriophage infecting Enterococcus faecalis can efficiently synthesise DNA at low temperatures. This unique property makes the enzyme a promising basis for developing new solutions in molecular diagnostics. The aim of the project is to modify and thoroughly characterise this "superpolymerase" in order to develop a novel isothermal DNA amplification method. Unlike conventional PCR, the proposed approach will enable rapid, sensitive and reliable detection of nucleic acids without the need for temperature cycling, opening new possibilities for clinical diagnostics and point-of-care testing.

Collaboration and funding model:

The collaboration will consist of two stages:

Stage I - onboarding and commencement of the Master's thesis. From November 2026 until the end of the winter semester, the student will participate in the team's research, become familiar with the methods used in the project and begin their Master's thesis under the supervision of team members.

Stage II - participation in the project as a scholarship holder. Following a positive assessment of the student's engagement, scientific progress, reliability and fit with the team, the student may be awarded a project scholarship of PLN 2,000 per month, planned to begin in March 2027. The scholarship may be continued in subsequent semesters, subject to meeting the project's formal requirements.

We offer:

• The opportunity to carry out an ambitious, experimental Master's thesis within an innovative project in molecular biology, structural biology and diagnostics.
• Comprehensive laboratory onboarding and support from experienced team members.
• From the second semester, the possibility of receiving a project scholarship of PLN 2,000 per month.

Requirements:

1. A Bachelor's degree in biotechnology, biology, chemistry, bioinformatics or a related field.
2. Practical experience in protein biochemistry and basic molecular biology techniques.
3. Strong motivation to conduct scientific research, creativity and analytical thinking skills.
4. Passion, ambition and a desire for scientific development.
5. Good command of English.

Responsibilities:

1. Conducting experimental research and data analysis under the supervision of experienced team members.
2. Contributing to experimental planning and interpretation of results.
3. Active participation in team meetings, seminars and scientific discussions.
4. Supporting the day-to-day operation of the laboratory and routine research activities.

How to apply:
Applications should be sent by email to michal.szymanski@ug.edu.pl, with "FENG_Master" in the subject line. Applications must be prepared in English and include:

1. A CV documenting the applicant's previous experience and scientific achievements.
2. A document confirming completion of a Bachelor's or Engineer's degree.
3. A document confirming current enrolment in a Master's degree programme.

Please include the following personal data processing consent statement:
"I consent to the processing of my personal data contained in this application for the purposes of the recruitment process, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 (General Data Protection Regulation)."

Recruitment schedule:

• Application deadline: 16 October 2026.
• Interviews with selected candidates: 26-28 October 2026.
• Recruitment outcome: 29 October 2026. Candidates will be informed by email. Interviews will be conducted in English.
• Preferred start date: 2 November 2026.
• The recruitment process may be concluded without selecting a candidate who meets the requirements.

Informal enquiries may be sent to: michal.szymanski@ug.edu.pl
More information: https://mrslab.ug.edu.pl/