IMol has been established to conduct scientific research and provide training in the fields of biological, chemical, medical, biotechnological, bioinformatics, biophysical, pharmacological, and similar sciences, in the international environment conducive to collaborative efforts, research and development interactions with the biotechnological industry, and wide dissemination of our results. We aim at the development of solutions that will help everyone on this planet live a safer life.

At the moment, IMol is looking for a candidate for the position of PhD student in Warsaw, Poland, for the implementation of the project Metabolic control of cell growth by mTOR in health and disease: a multi-disciplinary training (MENTOR) financed by the EU Marie-Curie-Sklodowska actions-Doctoral Networks programme.

Group Leader: Dr. Justyna Zmorzyńska (Zmorzynska Group – IMol)

Project title: “Metabolic control of cell growth by mTOR in health and disease: a multi-disciplinary training (MENTOR)” under the aim of understanding the pathologinal manifestations of mTORopathies with faithful preclinical models

You will join the project aimed at understanding the pathologinal manifestations of mTORopathies with zebrafish preclinical models. The project aims to answer how intricate interactions of the mTOR pathway shape brain connectivity development and brain function to regulate specific behaviours related to neuropsychiatric disorders. With the use of an integrative, multi-level, and unbiased approach, we aim to unravel mTOR functions in early brain development with the primary focus on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety, and related learning disabilities using zebrafish semi- and high-throughput behavioural tests, cutting-edge microscopy, and computer vision techniques.

We are looking for a highly motivated person to:

- Perform experiments using zebrafish including (but not limited to) behavioral tests, live imaging of connectivity development, whole mount stainings and brain imaging, and proteome and transcriptome analysis (independently and in collaboration with other team members),

- Participate in experimental design and data analysis,

- Collaborate with team members,

- Perform literature search,

- Participate in the data preparation and writing of manuscripts,

- Do internships aboroad and actively participate in conferences and summer schools,

- Actively participate in lab meetings and scientific seminars.

Profile of candidates/requirements:

- MSc degree in molecular or cell biology, neuroscience, developmental biology, or related fields of life sciences,

- The candidate must not have resided or carried out main activity in Poland for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date (the mobility rule in MSCA-DN actions),

- Solid knowledge and familiarity with laboratory techniques in at least one of the following disciplines: molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, neuroscience, developmental biology,

- Very good command of English,

- Motivation and passion for experimental work,

- Motivation to travel and to do internships abroad,

- Willingness to work with a zebrafish animal model,

- Prior experience in working with animal models, as well as basic programming skills would be an advantage but not essential,

- Keen interest in neurodevelopment, connectivity development, and molecular mechanisms underlying behavior,

- Willingness to learn and take new challenges, ability to work independently, analytical thinking,

- Good interpersonal skills and a collaborative attitude.

We offer:

- Job type (employment contract): Full-time position, fixed-term contract, up to 36 months,

- Remuneration/month: ~8000 net/month,

- Position with 100% focus on research (no teaching obligations),

- Travels to conferences and summer schools and internships abroad in academic and private sector,

- The position starts on the 1st of January 2025,

- Work in a young, active team in an excellent scientific environment,

- Comprehensive training in working with the zebrafish animal model, neuroscience, and brain development,

- Access to the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities,

- Participation in courses, scientific training, support from peers, and academic mentoring,

- Two PhD supervisors from two different countries,

- Benefits including reduced-rate for an individual private medical care package,

- Full technical, administrative and organizational support from professional English-speaking personnel.

Required documents (in English):

- Cover letter

- CV

- List of publications

- Reference contacts (please do not send generic letters, contact details only)

If you think you are the person we are looking for, please apply by filling in this form: https://forms.gle/Exoy7iw4U8cYLL9C6