PHD Student no. 10​/2026​/ICHB​/PSD

Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences

Organisation/Company Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences Department Department of Medical Biotechnology Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Final date to receive applications 14 Aug 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Brussels) Country Poland Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number 10/2026/ICHB/PSD Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Research topic: RNA-polyQ: RNA processing and dysregulation in polyglutamine diseases – insights into pathogenesis and therapeutic targets

More than 30 years have passed since the discovery of the genes whose mutations are responsible for neurodegenerative polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases. However, the mechanisms leading to pathology in the brain are not fully understood which makes it difficult to develop effective treatment. A thorough investigation of disruptions in cellular RNA levels and function is a key step toward understanding the molecular pathways altered in disease development.

RNA molecules of various types exert functions crucial for each cell's functioning. In this project, we will explore RNA processing pathways and RNA dysregulation in selected polyQ diseases. We will investigate mutant mRNAs and other selected RNAs (including long non-coding RNAs, circular RNAs and microRNAs) in terms of their cellular processing, modification, localization, as well as presence in extracellular vesicles. A set of human cellular models (also of neuronal type) with endogenous or exogenous expression of polyQ disease-related genes will be used to reveal RNA dysregulation profiles and characterize selected RNAs.

Finally, we will validate specific observations in patients’ samples and propose novel therapeutic strategies based on identified hallmarks.

We offer the following opportunities:

- to pursue your doctoral thesis in a stimulating and friendly environment in a scientifically vibrant Institute,

- to utilize advanced research techniques and gain extensive experience in molecular biology,

- to participate in training and conference trips and visits to collaborating laboratories.

Additional information:

• Research and doctoral theses shall be carried out within the project 2025/58/E/NZ2/00248 entitled “RNA-polyQ: RNA processing and dysregulation in polyglutamine diseases – insights into pathogenesis and therapeutic targets”, funded by National Science Center
• PhD students shall receive a stipend in the gross amount of ca 4 900 PLN (ca 4 300 PLN net) for the period of 24 months with extending up to 48 months. After the positive mid-term evaluation there is an increase of the amount of the stipend to at least 5 750 PLN gross (according to current rates).
• PhD students shall be subject to social insurance, pursuant to article. 6 section 1 passage 7b of the act of October 13th, 1998 on the social insurance system (Journal of Laws of 2019, item 300, 303 and 730).
• Possibility of using the Multisport card, group insurance, social benefits (co-financing of holiday leave, refundof tickets for cultural events).

PhD students shall receive a stipend in the gross amount of ca 4 900 PLN (ca 4 300 PLN net) for the period of 24 months with extending up to 48 months. After the positive mid-term evaluation there is an increase of the amount of the stipend to at least 5 750 PLN gross (according to current rates).

II. Requirements for the candidates:

• MSc degree in biology or a related field, or fulfilling the conditions stipulated in article 186, section 2 of the act of July 20th, 2018 Law on Higher Education and Science (Journal of Laws of 2018, item 1668, as amended).
• Experience in laboratory work in the field of molecular biology, genetics or biotechnology
• Experience in the field of RNA biology and/or experience in human cell lines is welcome.
• Strong motivation to conduct scientific research and enthusiasm for performing experiments.
• Ability to work independently and…