Summary
The Julian Lab at the Institute of Molecular Plant Biology (IMPB), BOKU University (Vienna, Austria), is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position. The research focus lies at the intersection of plant cell biology, stress physiology, and organelle dynamics, specifically investigating the molecular mechanisms governing Vacuolar Quality Control (VQC), membrane remodeling (e.g., tonoplast ATG8ylation), and plant adaptation to abiotic and biotic stresses.
Designation
- Postdoctoral Research Associate / Postdoctoral Fellow
Key Information Overview
| Attribute | Details |
| Position Title | Postdoctoral Researcher – Plant Cell Biology / Vacuolar Remodeling |
| Host Institution | University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) |
| Department / Institute | Institute of Molecular Plant Biology (IMPB), Dept. of Biotechnology and Food Science |
| Principal Investigator | Dr. Jose Julian (Julian Lab) |
| Location | Vienna, Austria |
| Contract Duration | 2 Years (with potential extension depending on funding/project needs) |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2026 |
| Contact Email | jose.julian@boku.ac.at |
Research Area
- Primary Focus: Plant Cell Biology, Organelle Quality Control, and Stress Signaling.
- Specific Topics:
- Molecular mechanisms of Vacuolar Quality Control (VQC) in plants.
- Tonoplast remodeling, ATG8ylation, and autophagic machinery recruitment during cell wall stress or pathogen interaction.
- Mechanical cue sensing, turgor pressure regulation, and plant mechanostasis.
Location
- Institute of Molecular Plant Biology (IMPB)Department of Biotechnology and Food ScienceBOKU University (Universität für Bodenkultur Wien)Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Education: Ph.D. (completed or near completion) in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related Life Sciences discipline.
- Technical Expertise: Hands-on experience in:
- Advanced optical/fluorescence and live-cell confocal microscopy.
- Standard molecular biology and genetic techniques (cloning, CRISPR/Cas, transgenic plant generation).
- Protein biochemistry and cell biology assays.
- Communication: Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Track Record: A strong scientific background demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications or preprints.
Desirable Attributes:
- Experience working with Arabidopsis thaliana or other plant model systems.
- Background in membrane trafficking, autophagy, or organelle remodeling pathways.
- Self-motivated, proactive mindset with strong collaborative and team-working capabilities.
Job Description & Responsibilities
- Research Execution: Design, conduct, and analyze experiments exploring tonoplast dynamics, vacuolar repair, and stress-induced remodeling pathways.
- Imaging & Molecular Analysis: Utilize state-of-the-art live-cell imaging and biochemical tools to track organelle remodeling and protein interactions.
- Scientific Communication: Write scientific manuscripts for publication in international peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national/international conferences.
- Mentorship & Lab Life: Assist in supervising master’s and Ph.D. students, participate in routine laboratory management, and contribute to an open, collaborative research environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should compile their application into a single PDF document containing:
- Cover Letter / Motivation Letter detailing your research experience, interests, and how they align with the Julian Lab’s research topics.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a complete list of publications, conference presentations, and technical skills.
- Contact Information of at least 2–3 academic references.
- Copies of Degree Certificates (PhD / Master’s).
Please submit your complete application via email directly to:
- Recipient: Dr. Jose Julian
- Email:
jose.julian@boku.ac.at - Subject Line:
Application: Postdoctoral Position - Plant Cell Biology - [Your Full Name]
Last Date to Apply
- September 30, 2026
