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Most current experimental methods for real-time measurements in single cells provide only qualitative and semiquantitative insights into the molecular mechanisms of interest. More detailed data can be obtained in high-throughput assays (biochemical assays with cell extracts) or from studies on fixed cells (various labelling procedures). This technological gap prevents the understanding of the kinetics of subcellular processes in particular. This gap can be filled by a technique that uses Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy (FCS), which allows a determination of the number and the diffusion time of single molecules in a sample. This well-known technique has found limited application in living cells due to the difficulties in interpreting, in particular, data regarding "diffusion time". For over 10 years, Robert Hołyst's group has conducted research to develop an empirical model linking the size of molecules and the hydrodynamic resistance they encounter in complex fluids, including the cytoplasm of cells and the interior of the cell nucleus. This model and the resulting equation allow for direct calculation of diffusing molecules inside the cell. This allows us to determine the number of moving molecules and their average size and number.

The goal of the project will be the application of advanced fluorescence techniques to answer fundamental questions about interactions of exogenous mRNA in the cellular interior. To this end, the original, proprietary method for real-time measurements of molecular interaction parameters in living cells will be used. This method is based on fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), supported by quantitative fluorescence microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM).

We are looking for an experimentalist with solid theoretical background in chemistry to cope with the physicochemical problems in physical chemistry. We guarantee access to top-notch instrumentation and well-equipped laboratories.

Responsibilities

1. Sample preparation

2. Measurements

3. Data analysis

4. Reporting

Role in the project:

Position 2 - Quantification of mRNA efficiency in target protein expression.

1. An individual private medical healthcare package and membership in the MultiSport programme at reduced rates.
2. Full technical, administrative and organizational support from professional English-speaking personnel.
3. Participation in courses, scientific training, support from peers, and academic mentoring.

Career development prospects at IChF:

1. The successful candidate will be part of the Soft Condensed Matter Group in the IChF.
2. Opportunity to advance scientific knowledge and gain hands-on experience at the border between biological sciences and physical chemistry in a prestigious application-oriented project.
3. Opportunity to work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of experienced chemists, engineers and biologists.
4. Participation in international conferences and Erasmus+ programme.

1. Education: Master degree of Chemistry or related discipline.
2. Good knowledge of English.
3. Strong motivation and commitment.
4. Knowledge of the FCS technique (Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy) and the basics of cell biology will be an advantage.
5. Complying with the non-competition policy following the WIB Programme guidelines.

Candidate must meet any of the following criteria:

1. The Candidate is a participant in a doctoral programme;
2. The Candidate is a doctoral candidate at a doctoral school.

Candidates can simultaneously apply for “Warsaw PhD School in Natural and BioMedical Sciences” in order to meet this criterion.

The commission evaluates applications on a point scale (max 100 points) according to the following criteria:

1. competencies of candidates to perform specific tasks in a research project (max 30 points);
2. previous scientific achievements of candidates, including publications in renowned publishers/scientific journals, grants, awards and opinions of the candidate, issued by an independent researcher  (max 20 points);
3. soft skills – command of English language, communication skills, teamwork, compatibility of plans for individual development with the goals of the group (max 10 points);
4. creativity measured by the quality and number of scientific publications in which the candidate is the first author, corresponding author or significant author and patent applications/patents and/or implementation (max 10 points);
5. mobility in the candidate's career (research internships, change in scientific profile, internships and work in industry) (max 10 points);
6. the number of citations of the candidate's work, especially those papers in which the candidate is the first author, corresponding author or significant author (max 10 points);
7. creativity is measured by the quality and number of research projects the candidate has led and publications resulting from implementing those projects (max 10 points).

Top candidates will be invited for an online or in-person interview. A good command of English is required. We reserve the right to contact and only reply to selected candidates.

Only candidates with a minimum of 70 points would be considered for the position. A position will be offered to the person who obtains the highest number of points. The Recruitment Committee may not recommend any candidate for the position if no candidate gets at least 70 points.