The Nanotechnology Centre and the Centre of Energy and Environmental Technologies at VŠB–Technical University of Ostrava are seeking a highly motivated, ambitious, and collaborative postdoctoral scientist with a strong biological background to lead experimental work at the nano–bio interface. The ideal candidate brings a track record evidenced by a solid publication record. Our research centers on advanced (nano)materials—particularly single‑atom materials (SAMs) on carbon platforms—and their interactions with relevant cellular models in nanomedicine and nanotoxicology. You will join an international team with access to state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure for materials synthesis and characterization alongside advanced biological testing.
The successful candidate will lead the design and execution of in‑vitro studies to elucidate mechanisms of cellular uptake, endo‑lysosomal trafficking, immunomodulation, and therapy‑relevant regulated cell‑death programs (e.g., ferroptosis/cuproptosis). Working closely with materials scientists, you will align biological readouts with the physicochemical descriptors of advanced materials. The role includes maintaining cellular models (cancer/healthy/immune) and planning exposure paradigms (acute or chronic scenarios). The applicant will also handle data analysis, interpretation, and visualization, write manuscripts and coordinate with internal and external partners (e.g., CATRIN, collaborating institutes).
Essential qualifications (must have):
- Ph.D. (or equivalent) in cell/molecular biology, biomedical sciences, toxicology, or a closely related field
- Extensive hands‑on cell culture experience (≥3 years)
- Strong publication record commensurate with experience; excellent scientific writing and communication skills in English
- Solid grasp of experimental design and statistics, including reproducibility and data management best practices
- Independently solving complex scientific research tasks in their field
- Participating in the research activities of the living laboratory, or collaborating in the research activities of other living laboratories,
- Participating in the implementation of collaborations within research programme
Desirable qualifications (beneficial):
- Experience with nanomaterials and nano–bio interfaces (colloidal stability (protein corona), cellular uptake/trafficking, lysosomal biology, autophagy/apoptosis/ferroptosis)
- Proven proficiency in the following: flow cytometry; confocal/live‑cell imaging; high‑content analysis (microplate reader); ELISA/multiplex cytokine assays; qPCR/Western blot
What we offer:
- Excellent infrastructure for materials synthesis/characterization and bio‑testing
- Collaborative environment across Nanotechnology Centre, CEET, and CATRIN, with opportunities for international collaboration (Karolinska Institutet, Sweden; Empa, Switzerland; Soochow University, China)
- Social Insurance (Health insurance, Employee’s pension insurance, and Employment insurance)
- The starting salary depends on qualifications
- Performance-based bonus applies
Submit an application/motivation letter and curriculum vitae including a list of publications to email: tomas.malina@vsb.cz. Contact information for 2–3 referees (no letters required at the initial stage).
Selected applicants will be invited for an oral interview.