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Postdoctoral Researcher 

We use stem cell models, high throughput technologies (ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, RNA-seq, Hi-C), CRISPR-Cas9 mediated genome editing, and computational tools, to decipher the regulatory networks orchestrating astrocyte functions and evolution. Our lab operates within the framework of the Dioscuri is a program, which was initiated by the Max Planck Society, and is managed jointly with the National Science Centre (Poland) and mutually funded by the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education and the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. We currently funded by 3 National Science Centre grants and by the EMBO Installation Grant. We are part of a Maria Skłodowska Curie Doctoral Network chrom_rare.

The project. Interlaminar astrocytes (ILAs) are a primate-specific morphotype of astrocytes present in the upper layers of the brain cortex. The functions of ILAs are unknown but the fact that ILAs disappear altogether in high grade Alzheimer’s disease patients, points to their relevance in normal brain functions. Dioscuri Centre for Chromatin Biology and Epigenomics, in collaboration with prof. Alexei Verkhratsky from the University of Manchester and dr. Amaia Arranz from the Achucarro Centre for Neuroscience in Bilbao, aims to determine the functions and the molecular markup of ILAs in primates using a combination of molecular biology techniques (e.g.: single nucleus RNA-seq), genome engineering approaches (CRISPR-Cas9), mouse chimera models and a neurophysiology toolkit.

Candidates should hold a PhD degree in neurosciences or molecular biology/genetics.

We require excellent work organization skills, a creative approach to research problems, team collaboration skills and motivation. Experience in laboratory work is necessary.

More information

For more information about the position contact a.pekowska@nencki.edu.pl.