Assistant Professor - DIOSCURI

23 Jan 2024
Job Information

Organisation/Company

Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology

Department

Administration

Research Field

Biological sciences » Other

Researcher Profile

Recognised Researcher (R2)

Country

Poland

Application Deadline

6 Feb 2024 - 23:59 (Europe/Warsaw)

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Full-time

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by an EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

RECTOR  of the Jagiellonian University

announces a selection procedure for the position of an

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Project Title: “Dioscuri Centre for Modelling of Posttranslational Modifications”

Project description:

We are currently seeking applications for a 3-year Postdoctoral position to explore the interactions between glycoproteins and the extracellular matrix (ECM) components. The ECM is a multifaceted web of proteins and carbohydrates that constitutes the structural underpinning of biological tissues. Glycans, the carbohydrate moieties that decorate majority of membrane proteins, are generally expected to shield intermolecular interactions. Glycan types are frequently altered in conditions ranging from neurological diseases to congenital disorders of glycosylation, but the role of glycans in these diseases remains poorly understood.

Preliminary results from our experimental collaborators have indicated that the mobility of glycoproteins in the ECM varies depending on their glycotypes, especially in neuronal contexts, with potential severe functional consequences. The mechanisms by which glycans modulate these interactions on the molecular level, and the implications for diseases, particularly neurological conditions, remain poorly understood.

Objectives:

Multi-Scale Modelling of ECM: Using state-of-the-art cryo-electron tomography reconstructions and results from mesoscopic simulations performed by our collaborators develop atomistic and coarse-grained  simulation models of the ECM.

Dynamic Analysis of Glycoproteins: Investigate how glycan modifications influence the diffusion properties of glycoproteins, with a focus on neurotransmitters and synaptic components within the ECM.

Experimental-Computational Synergy: Work closely with glyconeurobiology experts to cross-validate our computational findings with single-protein tracking experiments.

Disease Relevance and Translation: Uncover how the altered glycan interactions contribute to neurological diseases. Our work aims to 

shed light on the mechanics of synapses and neurotransmitters, offering routes for novel therapeutic strategies.

By engaging in this project, we aspire to offer comprehensive insights into the pivotal role glycans play in ECM interactions and neuronal function, thereby creating a ripple effect across neurobiology, pharmacology, and medical research.

The successful candidate will be a part of the Dioscuri Centre for Modelling of Posttranslational Modifications, which is an integral part of the Dioscuri Program, a Max Planck Society initiative, co-funded by the German and Polish Ministry of Science.

The Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology and the Dioscuri Centre strive to ensure a workplace with equal opportunities. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all members irrespective of gender, nationality or disabilities.

Scope of duties:

according to the Work Regulations of the Jagiellonian University Annex 1 to the Work Regulations of the Jagiellonian University – Model scopes of responsibilities and duties of academic teachers.

Requirements

Research Field

Biological sciences

Education Level

PhD or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

The selection procedure is open for all individuals, who meet the requirements set out in Articles 113 and 116.2.3) of the Act of 20 July 2018 – Law on Higher Education and Science, and who meet the following eligibility criteria according to § 165 of the Statute of the Jagiellonian University:

• holding at least a doctoral degree;
• having relevant scientific achievements;
• taking active part in scientific life.

Additional requirements and expectations:

1. PhD degree in biophysics, computational biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, or a related field.

2. Experience in performing molecular dynamics simulations / Monte Carlo simulations/docking simulations, as well as experience in constructing models of large biomolecular complexes.

3. familiarity with Unix and programming experience (python, bash) are essential.

4. Knowledge of cell biology and experience in large-scale simulations are welcome.

5. Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.

6. Interpersonal skills.

Specific Requirements

Required application documents:

resume,

personal questionnaire filled in by the candidate,

copy of the doctoral diploma or a diploma confirming the candidate’s habilitation degree, if applicable,

information on the candidate’s scientific, teaching and organizational achievements,

declaration of the candidate, confirming that the Jagiellonian University will be their primary place of work, should they be selected in the selection procedure,

statement under Article 113 of the Law on higher education and science,

statement on acknowledging and accepting the rules and regulations concerning intellectual property management and commercialization in force at the Jagiellonian University.

Declaration forms (no. 5-7) and personal questionnaire template (no. 2) can be obtained at:

https://cso.uj.edu.pl/en_GB/dokumkandyd

Additional application documents:

• list of publications (along with respective publishers and page numbers), Electronic versions for non-open access publications,
• review of doctoral or habilitation dissertation, if applicable,
• recommendation regarding the candidate's predisposition for research and teaching work, including the results of student surveys and evaluations, if the candidate was subject to such evaluation,

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Excellent

Additional Information
Benefits

We offer :

• stable employment based on an employment contract at the  renowned university,
• cooperation with the interdisciplinary academic community represented by well-known scientists,
• scientific support as well as the possibility of qualifications improvement and professional development,
• access to research infrastructure,
• competitive salary,
• close interactions with Dept of Theoretical Biophysics at the Max Planck Institute of Biophysics (partner of the Dioscuri Centre),
• benefits in the form of sports activities - Multisport card, medical packages, group insurance,
• opportunity to enjoy additional social benefits.

Selection process

The first stage of the selection procedure is the formal assessment of the submitted documents. Applications which meet all formal requirements are the subject of substantive assessment, during which an interview with the Candidate may be conducted (directly or via electronic communication channels), upon settling the date of the interview with the Candidate. The Candidate has the right to appeal against the negative assessment by the selection board within 7 days from receiving the information about the results of the assessment.

The selection procedure is conducted in accordance with The Policy of Open, Transparent and Merit-Based Recruitment Process at the Jagiellonian University .

Additional comments

In the selection procedure, Jagiellonian University follows the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and a Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.

Jagiellonian University does not provide housing.

Form of submission: by e-mail to the address: [email protected] , title: “Assistant Professor (Post-doc) - Dioscuri”

Website for additional job details

https://mcb.uj.edu.pl/en_GB/oferty-pracy/-/journal_content/56_INSTANCE_WbR3ltHE…

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University

Country

Poland

Geofield

Where to apply

E-mail

[email protected]

Contact

State/Province

Malopolska

City

Cracow

Website

https://mcb.uj.edu.pl/en_GB/

Street

Gronostajowa 7a

Postal Code

30-387

STATUS: EXPIRED