MSCA Doctoral Network PhD position: Cell-based characterization of IDRs binding to β-catenin Medical University of Graz in Austria

PhD opportunity at the Medical University of Graz in the FlexCAT MSCA Doctoral Network. This doctoral project, Cell-based characterization of IDRs binding to β-catenin, focuses on how intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) interact with β-catenin in cells and how these interactions shape transcriptional condensates and gene regulation.

The project aims to:
- characterize interactions between novel IDRs and β-catenin in cells;
- determine the functional consequences of β-catenin-mediated regulation of IDR-containing proteins;
- identify how novel β-catenin inhibitors influence transcriptional condensate formation and transcription.

The work sits at the interface of cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and cancer biology, with a strong emphasis on transcriptional regulation and biomolecular condensates. The project builds on expertise in the Madl group at the Medical University of Graz and includes collaborative input from cellular models at Boehringer Ingelheim and mass spectrometry expertise at UMI/Bonaldi. The overarching goal is to understand how β-catenin regulates transcriptional condensates and to reveal possible new therapeutic targeting mechanisms.

Suitable candidates should have a strong background in a relevant life science field and a keen interest in transcriptional regulation, IDPs/IDRs, and condensate biology. Experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, fluorescence microscopy, protein-protein interactions, and gene-expression analysis is highly desirable. Additional experience with advanced imaging, transcriptional assays, proteomics, or quantitative condensate analysis would be an advantage. Strong analytical skills, motivation for interdisciplinary research, and willingness to participate in international secondments within the FlexCAT network are expected.

This is a fully funded PhD position for three years under Horizon Europe MSCA-DN FlexCAT (Grant Agreement No. 101311592). The salary includes a Living Allowance, Mobility Allowance, and, where applicable, a Family Allowance, all subject to social security contributions and taxation. Additional support for a fourth year may be available depending on institutional or PI resources.

The candidate will be enrolled in the International PhD Program BioMolStruct at the Medical University of Graz. Applications are open until 31 October 2026. Apply online via the recruitment portal and include a motivation statement, CV, diplomas/transcripts, and two referees. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews, with decisions expected in mid-December 2026 and the start planned for January to March 2027.