GROUP LEADER
The Vilnius University Life Sciences Center, a partner institution of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (www.embl.org) for genome editing technologies (VU LSC-EMBL), is searching for outstanding researchers for 6 Group Leaders positions who will be working on self-defined projects on one of the broadly defined research topics such as:
- Research and development of novel genome editing tools;
- CRISPR-Cas molecular tools for understanding mechanisms of genetic diseases;
- CRISPR-Cas tools for cell/immunotherapies;
- Re-programming cells by CRISPR-Cas tools;
- Targeted delivery of CRISPR-Cas system to cells;
- Bioinformatics and sequencing core;
- Structural biology of proteins involved in gene editing.
Your role
- Build and lead a scientific research team by recruiting 2-4 junior staff scientists/postdocs.
- Supervise 1-2 PhD students.
- Develop and implement a self-designed project.
- Outline goals to group members clearly, plan daily activities and delegate tasks.
- Provide reports on research progress and results.
- Work in close collaboration with other groups at VU LSC and EMBL that are working on gene editing technology.
- Ensure scientific excellence, quality and transparency in all work.
- Uphold the values and rules of the organization.
- Be expected to compliment the internal budget through other national or international grants (preferably ERC Starting Grant) and/or through industrial collaborations.
Required qualifications and experience
The ideal candidate is expected to have:
- PhD or equivalent degree, preferably not older than twelve years, in cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or similar field, with an excellent track record in research;
- prior experience in genome editing/cell engineering (desirable);
- leadership and organizational skills (prior group/grant management experience is preferable);
- excellent project management skills;
- excellent communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills;
- enthusiasm in addressing new and emerging genome editing field problems;
- curiosity and passion for research;
- fluency in English, both written and spoken.
Why join us
The Life Sciences Center of Vilnius University (www.gmc.vu.lt/en/) is a partner institution of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (www.embl.org) for genome editing technologies established in September 2020 with the aim to advance scientific understanding of the biology and mechanisms of CRISPR as well as other antiviral defense systems. Partnership is based on the scientific and technological potential of the VU LSC in the targeted genome modification. Prof. Virginijus Šikšnys of VU LSC is one of the pioneers in the breakthrough CRISPR gene editing technology, who did much of the early work in characterizing the molecular machinery involved in CRISPR-Cas function.
We are an institution of world-class research and study with outstanding people, a very collegial working environment and excellent up-to-date infrastructure.
The Life Sciences Center (VU LSC) is a faculty level operational unit of Vilnius University (VU, which is a major public research and higher education institution in Lithuania). VU LSC conducts scientific research, studies and technological development in disciplines including biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, neurobiology, molecular medicine, biotechnology, cell and structural biology and other related sciences. The Center is home to 250 PhD degree researchers and around 1 000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Integration of studies and research provides an incoming stream of young talents.
International students about VU
Vilnius University “Sunrise” Campus
We offer
The remuneration package includes:
- core funding of 1M EUR for the first five-year appointment that includes competitive salaries for group leader (salary range: 3800-5900 EUR gross negotiable depending on qualification) and postdocs/technicians/consumable/travel and up to 200K EUR for instrumentation;
- financial support for relocation and installation, including your family;
- access to outstanding PhD students with additional PhD funding option;
- access to state-of-the-art research facilities and instrumentation;
- adequate lab and office space.
VU LSC is committed to internationality, diversity and equality, operating as equal opportunity employer and as such encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
Application process
If you are looking for a new challenge, where you can show your passion for innovation in genome editing that could improve people’s lives, please, send us your online application including:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications
- PhD diploma/certificate (not older than twelve years)
- The names and contact details of 3 referees
- A concise description of research interests and research project proposal of 3-5 pages including figures/schemes.
Please send the above documents to the e-mail address:
Application deadline: January 18, 2021.
Prospective employment starting day: March 1, 2021 (negotiable).
Group leader positions to be filled in the following broadly defined areas:
- Research and development of novel genome editing tools;
- CRISPR-Cas molecular tools for understanding mechanisms of genetic disease;
- CRISPR-Cas tools for cell/immunotherapies;
- Re-programming cells by CRISPR-Cas tools;
- Targeted delivery of CRISPR-Cas system to cells;
- Bioinformatics and sequencing core;
- Structural biology of proteins involved in gene editing.
Besides, other interesting/prospective proposals related to genome editing fields will also be considered.
Selection process
Recruitment of candidates will be based on their scientific excellence and quality of research proposal. We are committed to treating all applicants fairly and avoiding any discrimination.
Successful applicants will be invited for an online interview during which candidates will present their work and future research plans to the Search committee.
Interview dates: online interviews are planned from mid of January to February 2021.
Practical information