Postdoctoral Researcher – Genome Editing & Retinal Gene Therapy (application deadline 2026-01-01)
Vilnius University, Life Sciences Center (Lithuania)
Project: ReMiCasX – Retinoschisin gene correction using Miniature Cas12 Base Editors for X-linked Retinoschisis therapy
Start Date: October 2025 | Duration: 24 months (with possible extension)
Application Deadline: 15th of November 2025
About the Project
The ReMiCasX project is an international Lithuania–Taiwan collaboration developing innovative CRISPR/Cas12 miniature base editors, delivered via adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors, to correct RS1 gene mutations in models of X-linked Retinoschisis (XLRS). The project combines Lithuania’s expertise in next-generation gene editing technologies with Taiwan’s strengths in advanced retinal disease models and translational research.
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our multidisciplinary team at the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center. The postdoc will be the lead experimental scientist for the Lithuanian part of the project, working closely with our Taiwanese partners. The successful candidate will design and perform experiments in molecular biology, protein engineering, single-molecule magnetic tweezers and cell-based gene editing, as well as contribute to data analysis, manuscript preparation, and project coordination.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and construct novel miniature Cas12 base editor architectures (CBE/ABE) for RS1 gene correction
- Purify proteins and measure their activity using biochemical methods
- Create screening assays
- Conduct biophysical assays, including R-loop formation studies using magnetic tweezers
- Analyse sequencing and imaging data; prepare results for publication and presentation
- Liaise with the Taiwan research team, participate in joint workshops and secondments
- Contribute to scientific manuscripts, conference presentations, and outreach activities
Essential Qualifications
- PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or related Life Sciences field (awarded within the last 7 years)
- Strong skills in biochemistry and molecular biology
- Expertise in genome editing (CRISPR/Cas systems), protein engineering (desirable)
- Experience in fluorescence microscopy and/or single-molecule biophysics (desirable)
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and in a collaborative international team
- Strong communication skills in English (both written and oral)
We Offer
- A dynamic research environment within the VU–EMBL Partnership Institute for Genome Editing Technologies
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment
- Opportunity to collaborate with leading research teams in Lithuania and Taiwan
- Participation in international exchanges, workshops, and conferences
- Competitive salary and benefits in line with Lithuanian Research Council funding guidelines
How to Apply
Send the following documents to with the subject line Postdoc Application – ReMiCasX:
- Cover letter (max. 1 page) describing your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation
- CV
- Contact details of two or three referees
Postdoctoral Fellow in Human Brain Glycomics Research (two positions, application deadline 2026-01-01)
Two Postdoctoral Positions in Human Brain Glycomics Research at VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute, Vilnius University, Lithuania
The laboratory of Urte Neniskyte at the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center and European Molecular Biology Laboratory Partnership Institute (Vilnius, Lithuania) is seeking two talented postdoctoral researchers to join an ERC consolidator Grant project studying the role of neuronal glycocalyx in shaping the architecture of emerging circuits.
Research Focus: The project is aimed at understanding the role of glycocalyx and neuron-surface sialic acid in neuronal synapse formation, function and remodelling through the perspective of human evolution. This collaborative project combines iPSC-derived neurons from human and non-human primates with comprehensive electrophysiological, molecular and glycomic analysis to define how human-specific sialylation contributed to the evolution of the unique human brain.
Position 1: iPSCs Postdoctoral Researcher
- Design and execute experiments to study the circuit assembly of iPSC-derived neurons in vitro.
- Establish iPSC-derived neuronal and glial cultures from human and non-human primate iPSCs.
- Collaborate with molecular biologists to perform iPSC genome editing using CRISPR/Cas tools.
- Collaborate with glycome analysis facilities to define human-specific glycosylation and sialylation.
- Use postsurgical human tissue to validate iPSC findings.
Position 2: Electrophysiology Postdoctoral Researcher
- Develop and implement multi-electrode array (MEA) pipelines to investigate circuit properties.
- Supplement MEA recordings with calcium imaging.
- Combine optogenetic and MEA approaches for circuit stimulation.
- Lead computational analysis of network activity data.
- Collaborate with cell and molecular biologists.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Life Sciences, or related fields
- Strong publication record
- Interest in setting up new techniques and the ability to work independently
Research Environment: The successful applicants will work in a stimulating, international environment, with access to cutting-edge technologies in a rich scientific community. Both positions are tenable for up to 5 years on a full-time basis.
How to Apply: Please send the following documents to
- Detailed CV including publication list
- Cover letter describing your research interests and relevant experience
- Names and contact information of three references
If you are interested in job opportunities at the Life Sciences Center, send your CV and cover letter by e-mail to .
Confidentiality is guaranteed.