Postdoctoral Position in the Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Viruses, MWB UG & MUG

POST-DOC IN THE LABORATORY OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF VIRUSES MWB UG and MUG

Job title:

POST-DOC in the OPUS24 NCN project "Painting or Spots? – Unravelling the Mechanism of Formation and the Functional Significance of the Novel, Glioblastoma-Specific Localization Pattern of HCMV (Human Cytomegalovirus) IE1 (immediate early 1) Protein"

Job description:

-    conducting scientific research;
-    designing, carrying out and analysing laboratory experiments;
-    preparation of scientific publications;
-    working as part of a research team and individually.

Project description (https://virologygdansk.ug.edu.pl/reaserch/850/):

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a malignant brain tumour with a very poor prognosis for patients. The aetiology and pathogenesis of this disease are still not understood, making it difficult to develop effective therapies. Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been found in a high percentage of glioblastomas. Antiviral therapies have shown an increase in survival of GBM patients suggesting that HCMV infection contributes to glioblastoma development and pathogenesis, potentially stimulating the oncogenesis process. We have detected a new type of localisation of the viral IE1 protein, which appears to be specific for this cell type. The aim of this project is to investigate the mechanism of HCMV IE1 protein binding to chromosomes in glioblaastoma cells. We plan to identify the domain responsible for the specific localisation of the IE1 protein on chromosomes, and we want to find the determinants of this localisation. Understanding its function may contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting HCMV.

Task description:

1. Creation and validation of stable cell lines with KO of genes of interest (lentiviral transduction of CRISPR/Cas9 vectors).
2. Infection of cells with HCMV and analysis of localisation of IE1 viral protein (IFA) and viral genomes (FISH).
3. Infection of cells with HCMV and studies of lytic cycle, latency establishment and reactivation from latency.

Requirements:

1. PhD degree in: biotechnology, molecular biology, biology, or related field;
2. Practical knowledge of laboratory techniques used in molecular biology, cell biology or virology;
3. Experience working with lentiviruses or using CRISPR/Cas methods welcome;
4. Documented research achievements, including publication record and active participation in conference presentations;
5. Very good command of English (spoken and written);
6. Communication and teamwork skills.

We offer:

• Full-time employment contract for a period of 24 months
• Monthly salary (gross-gross) of approx. PLN 11,000
• A position focusing fully on scientific and research work (no teaching commitments)
• A well-equipped laboratory with a collaborative atmosphere, strong mentoring and emphasis on scientific development.

Required documents:

1. motivation letter;
2. academic curriculum vitae with a list of publications, internships and other achievements;
3. a copy of the doctoral diploma or certificate of completion of the doctoral studies;
4. an opinion from at least two supervisors certifying the skills necessary to carry out the project;
5. other documents which, in the opinion of the Candidate, are relevant for the consideration of his/her Application;

Please include the clause "I consent to the processing of personal data contained in my offer for the purposes of the recruitment process (in accordance with the Act of 29.08.1997 on the Protection of Personal Data Journal of Laws No. 133 item 883)".

Application:

Applications containing a complete set of documents should be delivered by 15.09.2025, by e-mail to: magdalena.weidner-glunde@ug.edu.pl, indicating in the title of the message ‘POST-DOC - OPUS24’.

Selected candidates who meet the formal requirements and the project requirements will be invited for an interview. Information regarding the interview will be sent to the invited candidates by e- mail. The candidate will be selected by the selection committee chaired by the project leader. The call may be closed without selecting a candidate. The rules of the competition are defined in the annex to the resolution of the NCN Council No. 60/2022 from 9 June 2022 on the change of the Regulations for granting funds for the implementation of tasks financed by the National Science Centre in relation to research projects.

Starting date: October 2025

Questions regarding the position, should be directed to project leader:
Dr. Magdalena Weidner-Glunde
e-mail: magdalena.weidner-glunde@ug.edu.pl
tel: +48 58 523 63 83