Postdoctoral Researcher in Laboratory of Neuro-Muscular Plasticity Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS in Poland

The Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS in Warsaw, Poland, is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher for the Laboratory of Neuro-Muscular Plasticity under the NCN OPUS 28 call. This is a full-time, temporary R2 postdoctoral position in biological sciences, with one available post and an expected start within the project framework.

The project addresses neuro-muscular plasticity and spinal cord repair. The research builds on prior findings showing that transplantation of fetal brainstem tissue containing serotonergic neurons can restore 5-HT innervation and improve locomotor function in paraplegic rats. The current work aims to generate and differentiate neural progenitor cells (NPCs), optimize in vitro culture conditions, and test whether cells from different sources can differentiate into specific neuron types after transplantation into the spinal cord. The work combines in vitro cell culture, ex vivo organotypic spinal cord cultures, in vivo rat experiments, histology, microscopy, modern neuroanatomical and neurophysiological methods, electrophysiology, and large-scale gene expression analysis.

Applicants must hold a PhD in biology, neurobiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, or a related discipline, and the doctorate must have been awarded outside Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS. Alternatively, candidates may qualify through a documented 10-month postdoctoral fellowship outside the host institution under NCN rules. The post emphasizes hands-on experimental experience, especially with nervous system physiology, cell and molecular biology, rodents, culture methods, and gene expression analysis. Strong English communication and scientific writing skills are required, together with motivation, accuracy, creativity, and the ability to work both independently and in a team.

The appointment is for 12 months with the possibility of extension up to the full 3-year grant period. The salary is PLN 9,300 gross per month, in accordance with NCN guidelines. Additional benefits include medical coverage, sports card support, social fund access, and professional development opportunities, including conferences, publications, and access to advanced research infrastructure.

To apply, submit a PDF application to [email protected] with the note “Post-doc OPUS 28 US”. Required materials include a CV with publications, a one-page letter of intent, contact details for at least two referees, a copy of the PhD diploma or equivalent, and candidate declarations regarding NCN remuneration rules. The deadline is 30 September 2026.

The position is based at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology PAS in Warsaw, Poland. For further information, contact Prof. Urszula Sławińska at [email protected].