Postdoctoral Researcher Position at the Structural Biology Laboratory Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG and MUG

The Structural Biology Laboratory (https://mrslab.ug.edu.pl/) at the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of the University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk (IFB UG & MUG), Poland, is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the SONATA BIS 12 project funded by the National Science Centre, Poland, entitled “The structural organization of the human mitochondrial replisome.”

Project description:

The mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) is essential for cellular function, as it encodes critical subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system. Like nuclear DNA, mtDNA must be faithfully replicated, and errors during this process lead to mutations that cause debilitating mitochondrial diseases. Approximately 1 in 2,000 people are at risk of developing a mitochondrial disorder during their lifetime, making these conditions among the most common metabolic diseases. Currently, there is no cure or approved treatment.

The stability of mtDNA depends on the accuracy of its replication, which is carried out by a dedicated set of enzymes forming a large macromolecular machine known as the mitochondrial replisome. While the core components of this replisome are known, its overall structure, functional coordination, and spatiotemporal organization remain poorly understood. The goal of this project is to define the structure of the human mitochondrial replisome, uncover how its components work together during DNA replication, and determine the mechanistic basis of human diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. By combining biochemistry, enzymology, structural biology (X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM), and cell biology, this interdisciplinary project aims to provide fundamental insights into the molecular principles of mitochondrial DNA replication and genome stability.

We offer:

• Full-time employment contract initially for a period of 12 months with the possibility of extension.
• A competitive salary, fully funded for the duration of the project. The final monthly gross remuneration will be calculated individually during the employment process, taking into account the length of service.
• A position 100% focused on scientific research (no teaching commitments).
• Opportunity for scientific development and work in a young, dynamically developing team.
• Technical, administrative and organizational support from professional English-speaking personnel.
• International trainings, internships, and conferences. Support from peers, and academic mentoring.
• Supervisory experience through mentoring of junior lab members.
• Flexible working time.

Requirements:

1. A doctoral degree (PhD) in biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry, structural biology, or a related field (awarded or to be awarded before the starting date).
2. Hands-on experience in protein biochemistry and enzymology, as well as in at least one of the following: protein engineering, structural biology (X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM), assay development, or nucleic acid biochemistry.
3. Documented research achievements, peer-reviewed publications and/or conference presentations.
4. Strong motivation to pursue challenging scientific questions and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
5. Very good command of English, both spoken and written.

Responsibilities:

1. Designing, planning, and carrying out experimental work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.                                                                                                               
2. Documenting all experimental work by maintaining regular, accurate, and complete research notes in accordance with good scientific practice.
3. Applying protein biochemistry, enzymology, structural biology (X-ray crystallography and/or cryo-EM), and cell biology techniques to investigate the mitochondrial replisome.
4. Analyzing and interpreting results, preparing reports and manuscripts, and presenting findings at group meetings and at national and international conferences.
5. Collaborating closely with project partners and contributing to joint research activities.
6. Providing help and supervision to junior members of the group (PhD and MSc students).
7. Contributing to the efficient functioning of the lab, including administrative and organizational tasks.

How to apply:

Please submit your application electronically to michal.szymanski@ug.edu.pl, specifying “SONATA_BIS_Postdoc” in the email subject line. Applications must be submitted in English and should contain:

1. CV documenting experience and scientific achievements.
2. Cover letter outlining your motivation to join the project.
3. Contact details of at least two referees, including one of your supervisors.
4. Copy of the PhD degree diploma (or a confirmation of its award).

Please include the following statement in your application:

“I hereby give consent for my personal data included in my application to be processed 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 timeline:

• Application deadline: September 30th, 2025.
• Interviews for selected candidates: 13-18 October 2025.
• The start date: November 1st, 2025 or as soon as possible.
• Only selected candidates will be invited to an interview, which will be conducted in English. Interview details will be sent by email.
• The successful candidate will be selected by a committee chaired by the Principal Investigator of the project.
• The competition may close early if no suitable candidate who fulfills the requirements is found.

Informal enquiries can be directed via email to: michal.szymanski@ug.edu.pl

For more information: https://mrslab.ug.edu.pl/