진학프로석·박사 채용 접수 플랫폼

IMol has been established to conduct scientific research and provide training in the fields of biological, chemical, medical, biotechnological, bioinformatics, biophysical, pharmacological, and similar sciences, in the international environment conducive to collaborative efforts, research and development interactions with the biotechnological industry, and wide dissemination of our results. We aim at the development of solutions that will help everyone on this planet live a safer life.

At the moment, IMol is looking for a candidate for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher in Warsaw, Poland, for the implementation of the project Sonata Bis 14 financed by the National Science Center.

Short description of the project:
This project explores the pivotal role of the cell cycle kinase complex DDK (CDC7–DBF4) in cancer biology, with a focus on pioneering new therapeutic strategies. DDK is important for DNA replication and is particularly critical in p53-deficient cancers, likely due to its involvement in managing replicative stress.
Beyond its established functions, our data reveal a novel role for DDK in regulating cell migration and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)—key processes driving tumor progression and metastasis. The in vivo function of DDK has remained largely elusive due to past technical constraints. Leveraging our in-house degradable CDC7 mouse models, we are investigating whether targeted CDC7 inhibition can selectively impair tumor growth while preserving healthy tissue. By dissecting DDK’s dual role in tumor initiation and dissemination, this work aims to unlock innovative therapeutic pathways with transformative potential for cancer treatment.

Few words about the group:
Our group studies the biology of the cell cycle to uncover mechanisms that drive both normal proliferation and cancer. We focus on cell-cycle kinases and their regulatory partners, using targeted protein degradation (TPD), CRISPR tools, and advanced mouse models to dissect their essential and redundant functions. By combining basic mechanistic studies with disease-focused research, we aim to identify cancer-specific vulnerabilities, particularly in some of the most common and deadly malignancies. Beyond DNA replication and division, we also investigate unexpected roles of cell-cycle regulators in non-canonical processes. Ultimately, our goal is to translate fundamental discoveries into novel therapeutic strategies.

Description of the tasks in the project:
The project is structured into two complementary research areas, each led by a dedicated postdoctoral researcher. The primary responsibilities for the respective positions include:

Postdoc #1 – Molecular Mechanisms of DDK in Cellular Transformation
This role focuses on uncovering how DDK drives oncogenic transformation at the molecular level. Key tasks include engineering primary cells and cancer cell lines to manipulate oncogenic drivers and modulate DDK activity, followed by assessing their tumorigenic potential in vitro and in vivo. The position also involves hands-on work with mouse cancer models and overseeing in vivo tumorigenesis experiments.

Postdoc #2 – Non-Canonical Functions of DDK in Metastasis
This position centers on dissecting the unconventional roles of DDK in regulating metastasis. Responsibilities include genetic modification of cancer cell lines—such as phospho-site mutagenesis of EMT-related transcription factors and generation of reporter systems—to study changes in migratory and invasive behavior. The work extends to in vivo metastasis models to evaluate how CDC7 inhibition impacts cancer cell dissemination.

Specific requirements:
Ph.D. in biology or related discipline with specialization in cell/molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or equivalent obtained not earlier than in 2018 (this is a grant requirement – this period can be increased by documented health or maternity-related leaves).
Required experience in culturing of human/rodent cells and molecular biology techniques.
Expertise in genetic engineering (molecular cloning, CRISPR-Cas9, knock-in/knock-out experiments) will be a big advantage.
Past exposure to targeted protein degradation techniques will be considered an asset.

We offer:

• Job type: full-time position, fixed-term contract, up to 48 months with a possibility of extension,
• Remuneration/month: 9.700 PLN gross/month,
• Work in an active team in an excellent scientific environment,
• Comprehensive training,
• Access to the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities,
• Participation in courses and conferences.

Required documents (in English):
- Cover letter,
- CV,
- List of publications,
- Reference contacts (please do not send generic letters, contact details only).

If you think you are the person we are looking for, please apply by filling in this form: https://forms.gle/Exoy7iw4U8cYLL9C6

For informal queries, please get in touch with j.suski@imol.institute