Postdoc in evolutionary genomics of Klebsiella pneumoniae temperate phages and capsule-interacting enzymes Jagiellonian University in United Kingdom

Informal early call for a postdoctoral position in evolutionary genomics, bioinformatics, comparative genomics, phylogenetics, and structural bioinformatics focused on Klebsiella pneumoniae temperate phages and their capsule-interacting enzymes.

The project is based in the group of Rafal Mostowy at Jagiellonian University / Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology in Krakow, in collaboration with Zuzanna Drulis-Kawa's experimental phage biology group at the University of Wroclaw. The research asks how prophage-encoded receptor-binding proteins evolve over time, especially enzymes that either degrade capsule or modify capsule by removing O-acetyl groups.

The lab is a dry lab using large-scale bacterial genome collections, GWAS-style analyses, phylogenetics, and structural annotation to study phage host range and receptor-binding protein diversification. The postdoc will work on questions about capsule specificity, prophage evolution, deacetylase-carrying phages, and how host capsule changes shape enzyme repertoires over evolutionary time.

Eligibility highlights include a PhD obtained within the last 7 years, a background in bioinformatics/computational biology/evolutionary or microbial genomics, experience with comparative genomics and/or phylogenetics, strong Python and/or R skills, and interest in microbial evolution and host-pathogen interactions. At least one first-author publication is expected; preprints may be considered. Experience with phage biology, glycobiology, or protein structure is welcome but not required.

The position is fully funded via an NCN SONATA BIS grant, initially for 1 year with a strong possibility of extension to 2 years. Full-time employment benefits include health insurance, 35 days of annual leave, and access to a sports membership programme.

This is an informal early call, not yet the official advertisement. Interested candidates should contact Rafal Mostowy by email, ideally by 21 July 2026. A formal ad with confirmed salary and application procedure will follow later.