Research Fellow in Biology

Masaryk University

Job Field: Science and Research
Employment Type: Full-time
EU Researcher Profile: R2
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Start Date: To be negotiated (as soon as possible preferred)

About CEITEC MU

The Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC) at Masaryk University in Brno is an internationally recognized research centre combining life sciences, advanced materials, and nanotechnologies. CEITEC MU offers a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary, and translational research environment supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure and comprehensive researcher support services.

About the Research Group

The Lukáš Trantírek Research Group is a team of passionate structural biologists specializing in NMR spectroscopy of nucleic acids. The group investigates non-canonical nucleic acid structures and their roles in genome regulation and disease, with a strong focus on methodological innovation and biological relevance.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Non-Coding Genome Research Group. The successful candidate will work on the development and application of ¹⁹F NMR methodologies to explore nucleic acid conformational landscapes.

The project focuses on G-quadruplexes (G4) and i-motifs (iM)—non-canonical DNA/RNA structures enriched in key genomic regions such as telomeres, centromeres, and gene promoters. By integrating ¹⁹F NMR with complementary biophysical assays, the research will investigate:

  • Structural equilibria and dynamics

  • Ligand binding interactomes

  • Conformational interconversion in vitro and in intracellular environments

This work aims to generate fundamental insights into the dynamic behavior of non-canonical nucleic acid systems and their roles in gene regulation and disease mechanisms.

Candidate Profile

Essential Qualifications

  • PhD (or equivalent) in structural biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, or a related field

  • Strong expertise in biomolecular NMR spectroscopy

  • Proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals

  • Experience with:

    • Sample preparation for NMR

    • Acquisition, processing, and resonance assignment of multidimensional solution NMR spectra

    • Nucleic acid and/or protein systems and their complexes with small molecules

  • Familiarity with NMR approaches to characterize molecular dynamics (advantageous)

  • Excellent scientific writing and communication skills in English

  • Motivation to establish an independent research direction within the group’s scope

Desirable Experience

  • Nucleic acid labelling strategies (chemical or enzymatic synthesis, click chemistry basics)

  • Experience with complementary biophysical techniques (e.g. ITC, MST, BLI)

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

We welcome applicants from diverse scientific backgrounds and are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment practices.

What We Offer

  • Full-time employment with an attractive salary

  • Access to CEITEC MU core facilities
    (https://www.ceitec.eu/core-facilities/)

  • Regular access to high-field NMR spectrometers (600, 700, 850, and 950 MHz)

  • A highly translational and interdisciplinary research environment

  • Flexible working hours and occasional home office

  • Seed funding opportunities and support to apply for prestigious grants (e.g. MSCA, EMBO)
    (https://www.ceitec.eu/postdoc/t11610)

  • Extensive professional development and training opportunities

  • Strong institutional support, including:

    • Welcome Office services

    • Grant Office support

    • Postdoc Peer Committee

    • CEITEC workshops, conferences, lectures, and community events

Benefits Package

  • 6 weeks of paid vacation

  • Medical insurance

  • Financial contributions to meals, kindergarten, or pension schemes

  • Multisport card

  • Mental health care

  • Sports lessons

  • Access to Kindergarten Elánek on campus

Life in Brno
Brno offers excellent quality of life, a vibrant international community, and a central location in Europe:
https://www.ceitec.eu/life-in-brno/t10426

How to Apply

Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Start Date: Negotiable (earliest possible preferred)

Please submit your application via the online application system and include:

  • Curriculum vitae

  • List of publications

  • Motivation letter

  • Contact information for at least three referees

For technical issues with the e-application, please contact:
Darja Horáková (HR)
???? darja.horakova@ceitec.muni.cz

Apply