Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska

The International Centre for Cancer Vaccine Science (ICCVS) at the University of Gdańsk is recruiting a Post-doctoral Researcher to join the Cancer Immunology research group led by Professor Natalia Marek-Trzonkowska . This is a full-time, temporary postdoctoral appointment in Gdańsk, Poland, starting as soon as possible and no later than the project timeline indicated in the offer. The role sits within the SWIFT project (“Science for Welfare, Innovations, and Forceful Therapies”), an International Research Agenda initiative funded through the European Funds for a Smart Economy 2021–2027 (FENG). The project builds on ICCVS expertise in identifying cancer-specific T cells and neoantigens, with the broader goal of developing a comprehensive anti-cancer therapy that can move toward clinical trial and open new research pathways in oncology. Research activities focus on translational cancer immunology and biotechnology. Key directions include identification of neoantigens presented by tumour MHC class I and II molecules and isolation of T cell clones recognizing them; determination of receptor-ligand pairs involved in docking of cancer-derived extracellular vesicles to T cells; strategies to prevent T cell reprogramming by cancer-derived EVs; and modification of the tumour microenvironment using reprogrammed autologous monocytes. The postdoctoral researcher will actively conduct scientific research, present and discuss results, take part in training, protocol development, seminars and group meetings, analyse and interpret data, and contribute to scientific publications and research grant writing. Applicants should have a PhD in biotechnology, biology, medical science, or a closely related cancer biology field, with the doctorate obtained no earlier than 2022. Strong hands-on experience in cell culture, especially human T cells, is essential, as is experience with cell biobanking and flow cytometry/cell sorting, including independent compensation and data analysis. Additional assets include spectral flow cytometry, cancer cell isolation and primary culture establishment, work with extracellular vesicles/exosomes and ultracentrifugation, and GMP-compliant laboratory experience. Very good communication and presentation skills, good English, and a collaborative mindset in a diverse international environment are also required. The position offers full-time employment, academic and organisational support, modern research equipment and specialist laboratory facilities, and a friendly interdisciplinary environment. Additional employment benefits may include yearly remuneration, holiday and Christmas allowances, private medical insurance, Multisport, life insurance, university holiday facilities, and access to university accommodation, subject to eligibility and university rules. The call is open until 1 September 2026 (Europe/Warsaw). Applications must include a CV with publications and research activity information, up to three relevant papers, a motivation letter, a GDPR statement, proof of PhD status, and references from two senior researchers. Documents should be prepared in English and merged into one PDF file, then emailed to [email protected] with the reference post-doc 2026_02 in the subject line.