Post-doctoral position in Plasmonic Nanoparticles and mRNA Metabolism (Recruitment No 21/2026)
The Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IPC PAS) in Warsaw is offering a fully funded post-doctoral position within the National Science Center OPUS 25 grant, focusing on plasmonic nanoparticles decorated with fluorescently-labelled mRNA. The project, led by Professor Joanna Niedziółka-Jönsson, aims to use single-pair FRET effects to investigate enzymes active in mRNA metabolism. This interdisciplinary research combines analytical and physical chemistry, optics, and materials science to develop novel double-labelled nucleotide and mRNA-based fluorescent probes. These probes, when chemically grafted to plasmonically active silver nanowires, enable enhanced optical detection and quantification of enzyme activity responsible for mRNA degradation, with the potential to monitor reactions at the single-molecule level in real time.
The successful candidate will be responsible for performing fluorescence microscopy experiments with single- and double-labelled probes conjugated to silver nanowires in liquid environments, designing modifications to fluorescence microscopes for real-time FRET investigations, and studying the influence of plasmon excitations on the optical properties of molecular probes. Additional tasks include fabricating reaction cells, investigating enzymatic activity for densely packed and individual FRET probes, and disseminating research results at project meetings, in peer-reviewed journals, and at international conferences.
Applicants must hold a PhD in chemistry, physics, or related fields, obtained from an institution other than IPC PAS or have completed at least 10 months of continuous postdoctoral internship in a different entity and country. Essential skills include expertise in physical chemistry, nanomaterials, plasmonics, surface modification, molecular interactions, fluorescence microscopy, and spectroscopic techniques. Experience with optical fluorescent microscopes, fluorescence image analysis, and research grants is required. Excellent English proficiency is mandatory. Candidates must not receive remuneration from other NCN projects, other employers, or retirement benefits during the contract period. Additional eligibility criteria are outlined in the NSC competition documentation.
The position offers a gross salary of approximately 11,580 PLN per month for 30 months, with 100% of work time devoted to the project. The successful candidate will gain valuable experience in optical detection and quantification of enzyme activity, which may impact metabolism, gene expression, and signalling. The research also explores photonic control of light-matter interaction at the nanoscale, contributing to the development of new hybrid RNA-based systems. IPC PAS provides opportunities to participate in the Young Scientists competition, Young Scientists Mobility competition, and ERASMUS+ programme.
To apply, candidates should email their application to [email protected] with the subject 'Recruitment no21/2026'. Required documents include confirmation of PhD degree, CV with scientific achievements, and a motivation letter describing the candidate’s most important research achievement. The application deadline is 15 May 2026, 12:00 noon. Incomplete applications may not be considered. Top candidates may be invited for an interview, and the position will be offered to the candidate with the highest evaluation by the Recruitment Committee. The results of the recruitment will be announced on 29 May 2026. Appeals against negative decisions can be sent to [email protected] within 7 days of notification.
Employment will be in accordance with the NSC competition documentation and IPC PAS employment policy. The Institute is committed to transparent recruitment and data protection, as detailed on their website. For further information, visit the IPC PAS job page or the Euraxess position link.
