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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 OPUS 29 financed by the National Science Center.

Group Leader: Prof. Agnieszka Chacinska (https://imol.institute/leaders/chacinska-group/)

Project title: Regulation of Protein Import into Human Mitochondria and its Impact on the Mitochondrial Proteome

Download the description of the project: https://ncn.gov.pl/sites/default/files/listy-rankingowe/2025-03-17-mmatyB0da2/streszczenia/647024-pl.pdf

Short description of the group and/or the project: Mitochondria rely on the efficient import of nuclear-encoded proteins to establish and remodel their proteome, a process mediated by specialized translocases, most prominently the TIM23 pathway, which handles over half of all mitochondrial proteins. While the basic architecture and function of TIM23 have been extensively characterized in yeast, the mechanisms governing its regulation in human cells remain poorly understood. Recent findings, including work from our group, reveal that the human TIM23 core exists in two distinct forms defined by alternative TIMM17 subunits, TIMM17A and TIMM17B, which exhibit strikingly different stability and regulatory properties. TIMM17B supports sustained translocase function, whereas TIMM17A is short lived and tightly controlled by YME1-dependent degradation and by the regulatory protein OCIAD1, through mechanisms that are not yet known. This project aims to define the architecture, dynamics, and functional specialization of TIM23 complexes containing either TIMM17A or TIMM17B, and to determine how these variants differentially shape mitochondrial protein import and proteome plasticity. Using advanced protein labeling, proteomics, and systematic analyses of translocase biogenesis, assembly, and turnover, the results of this project will provide a comprehensive understanding of TIM23 regulation in human cells and its relevance to mitochondrial function, metabolism, and disease.

We are looking for a highly motivated person to:

- Performing experiments using biochemical, cell and molecular biology techniques (independently and in collaboration with other team members),
- Designing experiments and analysing data,
- Writing manuscripts,
- Participation in supervision of MSc and PhD students,
- Participation in preparation of grant applications,
- Active participation in lab meetings, scientific seminars and conferences.

Profile of candidates/requirements:

- PhD degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry

PhD degree obtained not earlier than 2014 (this is a grant requirement – this period can be increased by documented health or maternity-related leaves),
- Strong publication record and experimental training,
- Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team,
- Very good command of English,
- Strong motivation and passion for experimental work,
- Research experience in another area of molecular biology will be advantageous.

We offer:

- Job type (employment contract): Full-time position, fixed-term contract, up to 48 months,
- Remuneration ca. 9.700 PLN gross/month = ca. 7.000 PLN monthly net (the net salary might vary depending on your tax situation, signing up for additional retirement pension plans, etc. For comparison, the current Polish minimum salary is ca. 4.700 PLN gross/month, and the average salary is ca. 9.000 PLN gross/month),
- The position starts on the 1st of Feb 2026 or later upon mutual agreement,
- Work in an active team in an excellent scientific environment,
- Comprehensive training in genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology,
- Access to the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities,
- Participation in courses and conferences,
- Medical package and social benefits (sports card, holiday bonus, 36 days of paid holiday per year).

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 contact a.chacinska@imol.institute, adding in cc m.krzyzycka@imol.institute