"POSTDOC POSITION in Primary Cilia Biology"

Medical Faculty of Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic invites excellent scientists to apply for a two-year

POSTDOC POSITION in Primary Cilia Biology

Description:

We are seeking a talented and motivated candidate to join our team to pursue the mechanisms and functions of primary cilia. The primary cilium is an antenna-like organelle that has emerged as a fundamental regulator of embryonic development as well as tissue homeostasis. While the complete absence of cilia is considered incompatible with life, even subtle defects in their assembly or function can trigger devastating conditions termed ciliopathies and influence the progression of certain cancers. However, the mechanistic explanation of primary cilia assembly and function, crucial for the understanding of cilia-related defects and their therapeutic targeting, is insufficient.

The successful candidate will join the Laboratory of Cilia and Centrosome Biology (headed by Dr. Lukáš Čajánek) at Masaryk University in Brno. The lab has a long-term interest in revealing the molecular mechanisms of cilia assembly, maintenance, and cilia-mediated signaling, in particular in relation to 1) the components of so-called distal appendages and kinases associated with those, 2) molecular motors controlling ciliary trafficking.

The selected applicant will have access to unique research tools, state-of-the-art methodology, and advanced instrumentation (cellular and animal models, proteomics, gene editing, lentiviral transduction, live cell imaging, super-resolution microscopy, etc.).

For more information on the research themes in the lab, please visit: www.cajaneklab.com

The successful candidate should:

• Hold a Ph.D. or its equivalent, awarded within the past 7 years, AND have worked in research for at least 2 years of work, within the last 3 years, outside the Czech Republic (with a workload equivalent to at least 0.5 full-time employment)
• Alternatively, hold a Ph.D. diploma (or equivalent) from an international institution awarded within the past 3 years
• Demonstrate a publication record that includes a minimum of three research outputs (articles) within the past three years, surpassing the field's median standards, with at least two of them ranked in Q1 according to Web of Science.

Specific qualifications include:

• Hold a Ph.D. in cell biology, molecular biology, or related fields
• Demonstrate a strong publication record in well-recognized scientific journals, including at least one first-author research article
• Exhibit expertise in mammalian cell culture, a wide array of molecular biology techniques, and advanced microscopy (skills in live cell imaging and/or super-resolution microscopy considered advantageous)
• Clearly demonstrate an interest in and an aptitude for addressing scientific challenges
• Be capable of independently planning experiments, prioritizing tasks, resolving project-related issues, and engaging in critical thinking
• Have exceptional communication and documentation skills
• Display a high level of motivation, creativity, proactivity, and self-driven initiative

Include these in your application:

• A comprehensive CV detailing your publication history
• A copy of your PhD diploma
• Contact information for two referees who can provide insights into your qualifications
• A brief but substantive description of your research focus and the specific topic you intend to investigate. Justify the relevance of this research within the field.
• Submission of documents validating that you have accumulated a minimum of two full years of work experience outside the Czech Republic within the past three years, and/or proof of a Ph.D. diploma from a foreign institution.

We offer:

• Access to Core Facilities and state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced imaging and sequencing technologies
• An exceptionally competitive salary, commensurate with the applicant's skills and proficiency.
• An enticing position within a rapidly evolving university precinct.
• A range of diverse and stimulating responsibilities within an outstanding research environment.
• An initial two-year appointment.
• The opportunity to collaborate with a professional team in a comfortable work environment.
• Interaction with renowned scientists within an inspiring, globally-connected setting.
• A dedicated welcome service tailored to the needs of the successful candidate and their family.

Anticipated start date: The position is available from April 2026 or upon agreement

The submission deadline is 31st January 2026

Please submit e-application.

For more information, please contact Martina Vrablikova by e-mail vrablikova@med.muni.cz.

The assessment of applications will begin promptly upon the deadline's closure. Candidates who make the shortlist will receive invitations for interviews within one month following the application deadline.