Description:
Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology in a newly established Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, has an opening for a post-doc position in the project “Changes in transcription factor isoforms as a mechanism to switch gene expression during the differentiation of thalamic neurons”, funded by the National Science Centre. The project leader is Marta B. Wiśniewska.
Lab focus:
Cell differentiation is a multistep process that is particularly long and complex in the case of neurons. While significant advances have been made on the specification of cells in neurogenic niches, relatively enigmatic is differentiation regulation of postmitotic neurons. We address this question, focusing on transcriptional control of embryonic and postnatal maturation of neurons of the thalamic. Our work contributes to a better understanding of how the thalamus develops and how its functions are maintained in adult. This is vital for identifying the causes of some psychiatric disorders, because accumulating evidence implicates alterations in thalamic anatomy and activity in schizophrenia and other mental conditions.
Job description:
The aim of the project is to understand the role of developmentally coordinated isoform switches of transcription factors in regulating the transitions between successive developmental stages in the thalamus and in terminal selection of thalamic neurons. The successful applicant will implement this project in collaboration with other team members. The scope of tasks will include RNA-seq, ATAC-seq and ChIP-seq on mice with isoform-specific gene knock-outs, followed by in-depth bioinformatics analysis. Depending on applicant’s aptitudes, previous experience and willingness, the fellow will be encouraged to develop her/his own ideas and to supervise students.
Requirements:
- PhD in biology or related sciences (the applicant must have obtained her/his doctoral degree no sooner than 7 years before the starting year of the employment in the project, excluding maternity/paternity leave and health leave);
- documented research experience in molecular biology;
- strong interest in gene expression regulation;
- fluent English;
- previous training in neurobiology, transcription and chromatin remodeling, animal experimentation, brain tissue processing or bioinformatics is a plus;
- capacity for logical and critical thinking;
- ability to direct her/his experimental efforts independently.
Employment conditions:
- the employment type: full time position;
- gross salary: approximately 7 500 PLN per month plus a thirteen salary;
- employment period: 36 months (including 6 month probation);
- planned start date: July 2018 (flexible).
Required documents:
- cover letter;
- scientific CV including your personal data, education, research experience, main achievements, and with the clause
In accordance with the personal data protection act from the 29th of August 1997, I hereby agree to process and to store my personal data by the Institution for recruitment purposes;
- list of publications;
- PhD certificate, or master degree certificate with a statement about the foreseen date of PhD thesis defense;
- contact details for two people that can provide recommendations.
How to apply information
- apply via email to wisniewska@cent.uw.edu.pl (please write “application for a postdoc position ” in the mail’s subject line);
- offers will be accepted till May 11th;
- we reserve the rights to interview the shortlisted candidates only;
- the results will be announced via email;
in the case of not signing the contract by the selected candidate, due to the resignation, we reserve the rights to choose the next candidate from the ranking list.
Deadline: 11/05/2018
