Masaryk University (CEITEC MU) invites applications from motivated and enthusiastic researchers for a Postdoctoral Position in (Un) Structural Biology of Wnt Signaling within the Konstantinos Tripsianes Research Group. This position offers a unique opportunity to decipher the complex molecular mechanisms and conformational plasticity of Dishevelled (DVL) proteins using cutting-edge structural biology and biophysical technologies in Brno, Czech Republic.
Position Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (PostDoc) |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Structural Biology, Biomolecular NMR, Biophysics, Wnt Signaling |
| Host Institution | Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC), Masaryk University |
| Location | Brno, Czech Republic |
| Employment Type | Full-time |
| Start Date | Immediately or upon mutual agreement |
| Application Deadline | December 23, 2026 |
Job Description & Research Focus
Dishevelled (DVL) serves as the central hub of Wnt signal transduction, directing distinct downstream cytoplasmic cascades. It features multifaceted signaling properties: interacting with over seventy partners, undergoing extensive multi-site phosphorylation by diverse kinases (including Ck1δ/ε), and assembling into dynamic phase-separated liquid droplets (puncta).
The research group hypothesizes that DVL’s conformational plasticity, mediated by order-disorder interactions, governs phosphorylation integration, partner binding, allosteric regulation, and liquid-liquid phase separation. The project integrates high-end structural biology techniques (NMR, X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM) and biophysical approaches (FRET, ITC, BLI) with cell-based readouts (TopFlash, BRET) and proteomics. Successful candidates will focus on one of three impactful questions:
- Does intrinsic disorder provide novel contexts to structured domains to expand the functional repertoire of DVL?
- Is there a sequential hierarchy, direction, or order in the phosphorylation of individual Ser/Thr sites and clusters in DVL?
- What physical properties characterize DVL intrinsic disorder and how do they govern liquid-liquid phase separation?
Eligibility and Qualifications
Must-Have Qualifications:
- Ph.D. degree in Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
- Strong interest and background in structural biology, particularly biomolecular NMR applications.
- Hands-on experience with molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and structural characterization methods.
- High proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, team-oriented mindset, and curiosity-driven approach.
Nice-to-Have Skills:
- Programming and computational analysis skills (Python, R, or related scripting languages).
What CEITEC Masaryk University Offers
- Open access to world-class core facilities with state-of-the-art instrumentation.
- Attractive salary package and full-time employment contract.
- Flexible working arrangements and support for continuing education and professional development.
- Generous employee benefits: 6 weeks of paid vacation, health insurance, meal vouchers, kindergarten/pension contributions, Multisport card, and on-campus sports lessons.
- Dedicated administrative support via the Welcome Office (for relocation) and Grant Office.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the university’s online recruitment portal. Please prepare the following documents:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A complete list of publications
- A motivation letter explaining your research interests and suitability for the project
- Contact details for at least two academic referees
Note: Applications and interviews are reviewed on an ongoing, rolling basis throughout the duration of the posting.
Application Deadline & Apply Link
Last Date for Application: December 23, 2026
Official Application Link: Apply Online at Masaryk University Career Portal
