Postdoctoral Research Associate (the offer is valid until a suitable candidate is found)
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Vilnius University, Life Sciences Center (Lithuania)
Project: Single-molecule biophysics of DNA motors
Start Date: ASAP | Duration: 24 months (with possible extension)
Deadline: until a suitable candidate is found
Position Summary
The Postoctoral research Associate will investigate mechanisms of DNA motors using single-
molecule techniques – magnetic and optical tweezers, fluorescence microscopy, DNA origami
and others. There will be collaboration opportunities with the UK universities and Taiwan
partners with planned research visits. You would have opportunity to contribute to
building/improving magnetic and optical tweezers microscopes. While employed, you would be
encouraged and supported to apply for EMBO, Marie-Currie and other fellowships.
Essential Qualifications
● PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Physics or related field
● Strong skills in lab work
● Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
● Ability to work independently and in a collaborative international team
● Experience in microscopy and/or single-molecule biophysics would be advantageous
● Strong communication skills in English (both written and oral)
We Offer
● A dynamic research environment within the VU Life Sciences Centre
● Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment
● Access to EMBO training and facilities
● Opportunity to collaborate with leading research teams in Lithuania, UK and Taiwan
● Participation in international exchanges, workshops, and conferences
● Salary 2300-3500 EUR (gross) depending on experience
About the lab
DNA Motors Lab, led by Dr Algirdas Toleikis, is investigating DNA helicases, translocases and
other DNA-interacting proteins, including CRISPR-Cas. We are using single-molecule
approaches as well as a number of other biochemical and biophysical techniques. That includes
force microscopy (magnetic and optical tweezers), spectroscopy, protein purification,
mutagenesis etc. Also, we combine engineering and programming to build custom-made
microscopes. The lab is part of EMBO Young Investigators Network.
https://www.gmc.vu.lt/en/dna-motors-laboratory
How to Apply
Send the following documents to with the subject line Postdoc
Application. Include:
- CV
- Cover letter (max 1 page), describing your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation
- Contact details for 2 references.
Group Leader – Genome Editing/Cellular immunotherapy (application deadline 2026-04-01)
Job type: Principal Investigator
Qualification: PhD
Job duration: fixed 5-year term (can be extended for an additional 4 years upon positive evaluation)
Job hours: full-time (40 hours/week).
Discipline: Life Sciences
Description
Vilnius University Life Sciences Center EMBL Partnership Institute for Genome Editing Technologies invites applications for a full-time appointment Group Leader position, with an anticipated start date of September 2026.
The VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute focuses on the research and development of next-generation genome-editing tools and technologies, enabling innovative applications and translational research. We seek exceptional candidates with strong expertise in genome editing and cellular immunotherapy (CAR-T cells, NK cells, engineering of immune cells, cell reprogramming, etc.). The ideal applicant is an early-career researcher who wishes to establish an independent research group and develop its own research programme at the interface of genome editing and cellular immunotherapy.
We offer
A five-year appointment that includes a competitive salary (60,000 – 77,000 EUR/year) within a 1,000,000 EUR core funding for the entire 5-year period, a very collegial and friendly working environment, and access to world-class research facilities. This appointment may be extended for an additional 4 years, subject to a positive evaluation conducted before the end of the fourth year of the initial appointment.
Your role
You will carry out an original research project in the field of genome editing technologies, where you will build, lead, and manage an independent research group in pursuing ambitious research goals. You will work in close collaboration with the other five groups that form the VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute. You will be expected to develop your own research programme and strong publication record, actively apply for international and national grants, and supervise undergraduate and graduate students. Students pursuing a PhD in your laboratory will typically receive governmental scholarships independent of your core funding.
Required qualification
You should hold a PhD (or equivalent degree) in cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related area. Your record should include demonstrated excellence in research, mentoring, attracting funding, and disseminating your achievements. Beyond the quality, originality, and feasibility of your research plan, your potential for synergy within the VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute will be highly valued.
Why join us
In 2020, the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center (VU LSC) established a partnership with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) to develop the next generation of genome-editing technologies. As a member of this Partnership, you will benefit from the scientific and technological potential of the VU LSC in targeted genome modification and EMBL’s broad excellence in the life sciences.
Our Partnership Institute is situated within the VU LSC, which hosts over 50 research groups, 200 senior researchers, and more than 1,000 students. As the nation’s leading research organization, Vilnius University ensures steady access to young talents, both local and foreign. At each level, we strive for internationality, diversity, and equality, and thus strongly encourage you to apply. Finally, to learn more about the exceptional quality of life offered in Vilnius, Lithuania, please visit: https://www.govilnius.lt/
All qualified candidates are invited to apply via the email address below. Applications must include:
- motivation (cover) letter
- curriculum vitae
- list of publications
- PhD diploma/certificate
- statement of research interests describing past research accomplishments
- research proposal of 3–5 pages, including figures
- names and contact information of 3 referees
Application until April 01, 2026:
Other useful information
The candidate's recruitment will be based on their scientific excellence and the quality of their research proposal. The proposed research project will be evaluated not only on its quality, originality, and feasibility but also on the benefits it will bring to the VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute. We are committed to treating all applicants fairly and avoiding discrimination. Vilnius University operates as an equal opportunity employer and, as such, encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
Candidates must not submit information in their application that is confidential and/or protected by the intellectual property rights of third parties, and may contravene any rights of third parties.
Selection process
Qualified applicants will be invited to attend an online interview with the Search Committee in April-May 2026. Following the interview process, a formal offer letter will be issued in writing to the candidate selected for the position.
If you are interested in job opportunities at the Life Sciences Center, send your CV and cover letter by email to .
Confidentiality is guaranteed.