Magdalena Dziembowska

Assistant Professor (post-doc) position at the Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw This full-time, 48-month research position is part of a project titled “Synaptic mitochondria as a key to understand autism-associated neurodevelopmental disorders: molecular mechanisms regulating their dynamics and function” , led by Prof. Magdalena Dziembowska at the University of Warsaw. The work is funded by the National Science Centre and is hosted in the Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Experimental Zoology. The project investigates how presynaptic mitochondria support synaptic function and how mitochondrial dynamics and activity are altered in autism-associated neurodevelopmental disorders. Using two mouse models, Fmr1 knockout mice and Trap1 mutant mice, the research combines biochemical, imaging, and electrophysiological approaches to build a compartment-specific view of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurons. The position is especially relevant to researchers interested in neuronal cell biology, synaptic physiology, neurodevelopmental disease mechanisms, and mitochondrial biology. Key responsibilities include conducting original research in biological sciences, publishing results in international scientific journals, contributing to research funding efforts, and carrying out other academic teaching duties as required by the University of Warsaw. The post is a good fit for candidates with strong hands-on experience in primary neuronal culture, confocal and light microscopy, electron microscopy, image analysis, molecular biology, biochemistry, and laboratory animal work. Applicants must hold a PhD in biological sciences or a related discipline before the deadline, show a strong publication record, and demonstrate international experience. The university also expects proficiency in English and values experience with students, science outreach, research mobility, external grant applications, basic R programming, and machine learning approaches for microscopy data analysis. Authorization to work with laboratory animals, such as a POLLASA certificate, is specifically requested. The appointment starts on 1 October 2026. The salary is PLN 11,000 gross per month, with additional annual remuneration and service allowance. Applications should be submitted by email to the project leader and the Faculty Dean’s Office. Required documents include the university questionnaire and a motivation letter describing scientific interests and a research development plan. The deadline is 28 August 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Warsaw). Interviews are scheduled for 4 September 2026, and the outcome will be communicated by email by 8 September 2026. This is a strong opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher aiming to advance work at the interface of neuroscience, mitochondrial biology, and autism-related disease mechanisms within an active research environment at one of Poland’s leading universities.