Procedure no. DSMBBC​/2026​/IMOL​/07 The role of splicing dynamics in Caenorhabditis elegans germl

Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics Polish Academy of Sciences

Organisation/Company Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics Polish Academy of Sciences Research Field Biological sciences Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Final date to receive applications 11 Aug 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Warsaw) Country Poland Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Our laboratory investigates how RNA metabolism and pre-mRNA splicing shape the molecular identity of various types of stem cells during the earliest stages of development. In the proposed project, we aim to understand how the spliceosome, one of the most complex cellular machineries, is dynamically regulated in Caenorhabditis elegans germ stem cells (GSCs) and how changes in its composition influence cell fate decisions.

The project comprises three primary objectives. First, we will use cutting-edge methodology to analyze the dynamics of splicing factors and alternative splicing events across different parts of the germline. This will allow us to identify specific splicing events that are critical for the proper regulation of the germline. Second, we will study how splicing factors function to regulate germ cell developmental fates.

To this end, we will employ genome or proteome editing techniques to create worms with misbalanced control of splicing factor levels and determine the resulting phenotypes. Finally, we will analyze the relevance of alternative splicing for physiology and identify genes that undergo alternative splicing during germline specification. By studying the relatively simple germline of

C. elegans, we will gain insights into the fundamental mechanisms governing germ stem cell development and differentiation. We offer an opportunity to be part of a growing, highly collaborative lab focused on fundamental questions in RNA biology with relevance to developmental and regenerative medicine. In the future, the findings of the proposed project might contribute to the development of improved treatments for reproductive disorders and germ cell-originating cancers.

Hold a degree of Master of Science [ Magister ], Master of Engineering [ Magister Inżynier ], medical doctor or equivalent in the field of: exact sciences, natural sciences, medical sciences or related disciplines, granted by a Polish or foreign university; a person who does not possess the qualifications described above may take part in the competition, but must obtain the qualifications in question and provide the relevant documents before the start of the programme at the Doctoral School (i.e., 1st October 2026).

Education at the Doctoral School begins on 1st October 2026;

Specific Requirements

• Very good scientific track record in relation to career stage;
• Strong foundational knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and cell biology is essential;
• Practical experience with basic molecular biology or genetic techniques is required (for example, PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, microscopy, Western blotting, etc.);
• Prior experience working with
  
  C. elegans is highly desirable, but not mandatory — training will be provided;
• Familiarity with RNA biology, gene expression regulation, or stem cell biology will be considered an asset;
• Experience in any of the following areas is a plus: CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, transcriptomic/proteomic profiling, confocal microscopy, or basic bioinformatics (e.g., RNA-seq or Mass Spec data analysis);
• Excellent command of written and spoken English;
• Good organizational skills, ability to work independently, and in a team;
• A proactive attitude, scientific curiosity, and enthusiasm for experimental science are essential.

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Research Field Biological sciences

1st year: 5500; 2nd year: 5500; 3rd year: 5500; 4th year: 5500

Selection process

The recruitment process consists of three stages:

Stage One

• The Committee analyses the application…