PhD Student in Neuroscience (# of pos: 2)

PORT is seeking for a

Localization: Wrocław

Ref. no. PhD/AK/22

Łukasiewicz PORT - Polish Center for Technology Development is a modern and dynamically developing Research Institutewithin the Łukasiewicz Research Network. It focuses on development of new technologies, resulting from basic and applied research which, in turn, serve as a basis for innovative solutions for the industry. The scientific branch of Łukasiewicz-PORT encompasses three Centers: Life Science and Biotechnology, Material Sciences and Population Diagnostics, backed by specialized core facilities and excellent infrastructure that supports high quality research.

We are in search of a motivated PhD student to join the project founded by the National Science Center (NCN) SONATA BIS grant 2021/42/E/NZ3/00439 “Identification of novel disease modifiers in Huntington's disease: neuro-glia interactions in the patient-derived multidimentional model”. The project will be led by Dr Agnieszka Krzyżosiak. This post is an exciting opportunity to become a part of a young and dedicated research group that investigates the molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration.

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are devasting, age-related disorders that despite substantial efforts remain with no cure. In our work we implement the cutting-edge approaches in order to advance our understanding of the molecular bases of neurodegeneration and propose novel treatment strategies.

The deposition of misfolding-prone proteins is a common feature of NDDs and consistent evidence points to the deregulation of protein quality control (PQC) in NDDs. We have previously shown the beneficial effect of boosting the PQC in preventing protein misfolding (Das, Krzyzosiak et al. 2015, Science; Krzyzosiak, Sigurdardottir et al. 2018, Cell). Building on that, our aim is to systematically explore molecular components of the PQC pathway and exploit their potential of modifying cellular pathology of NDDs.

In your research, you will learn how to maintain and reprogram human cells. You will implement the genetic manipulation tools (e.g. lentiviruses) to investigate the role of PQC components in molecular pathology of Huntington’s disease. You will also validate your discoveries in the organismal context of a mouse.

In summary, by implementing this diverse set of tools you will contribute to the identification of novel modulators of Huntington’s disease pathology.

Key responsibilities:

• Implementing and daily maintaining of human cellular models.
• Careful experimental planning and undertaking experiments.
• Critical data analysis and interpretation.
• Extrapolating your discoveries to in vivo models.
• Reporting to your group leader.
• Presenting data internally and externally.
• Maintaining high-quality lab notes.
• Communicating and interacting within the team.
• Bringing ideas to address the questions of the project.

Academic qualifications:

• MSc in neuroscience, cell biology, molecular biology or a related discipline.

Technical skills and expertise:

Essential:

• Commitment, creativity and motivation.
• Very good work organization skills.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• A team-player attitude.

Desirable:

• Hands-on experience in establishing and/or maintenance of cell culture.
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience in imaging.
• Experience in working with mice.
• Previous experience in studying neurodegeneration and/or protein quality control will be an asset.

We offer:

• A full-time contract at the position of Specialist.
• Competitive salary and social benefits (co-financing of private medical care, sport activities, etc).
• State-of-the-art infrastructure, modern, well-equipped laboratories and access to core facilities.
• Participation in international conferences and workshops.
• Supervision of experienced specialists.
• A friendly, inspiring, interdisciplinary environment.

Please provide:

• Curriculum Vitae summarizing your interests, goals and research experience.
• 1-page cover letter explaining the reasons of interest in the project.
• Reference letters from previous employers are welcome.

Please send your resume via link:

https://system.erecruiter.pl/FormTemplates/RecruitmentForm.aspx?WebID=d213d93b016c4440b6e26f12ba5a66fa

Application deadline: Aug 21st, 2022

Please note that we will contact only selected candidates.