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Viruses are not only our enemies, but also allies in number of applications. Thus, an affordable method for stabilization of viruses under harsh conditions is an issue that requires immediate response. The modulation of stability of viruses will be demonstrated on the example of bacteriophages (phages in short) – viruses, which hosts are bacteria. Bacteriophages are used as active ingredients in biocontrol agents, in phage therapies (against drug-resistant bacteria), as sensing elements of biosensors, carriers of genetic information in gene therapies or in phage display method. Importantly, some species (like bacteriophage MS2) are regarded as great models routinely utilized for studies on viruses attacking eukaryotic (also human) cells. Therefore, the work might have also impact on increase of stability of vaccines It is crucial as up to 80% of costs of vaccination programs is generated by the need of storage and transportation of vaccines in the low temperatures.

Capsid is part of the virion, where genetic information is stored. Capsid proteins are held together by non-covalent interactions, which are prone to be destabilized by external factors, i.e. slight increase of the temperature or osmotic pressure. The project aims at development of physicochemical means, which increase number of survivor virions upon exposition to external, deactivating factors.

Project aims at stabilizing of bacteriophages. The search of the appropriate stabilizing agents will begin with polymers, modified polymers and linkers. The stabilizing effect of developed agents will be tested primarily, but not exclusively, against elevated temperature and UV light. Developed agents will have low cytotoxicity. The project aims at explanation of mechanisms of phage deactivation and how developed agents counteract them.

From our experience the background in biotechnology would be appropriate, as it allows to adapt to both chemistry and biology tasks. However, applicants with other backgrounds will be also considered based on the possible input to the project (e.g. chemists, biologists, physicists, engineers or similar).

PhD student will be involved in the realization of the project which is at the border between biology, physics and chemistry. This person will work with both viruses and bacteria. Moreover, understanding of physical chemistry will be necessary. It is expected that the enrolled candidate will be able to perform experiments independently, plan the workflow and participate in the decision making process.

Responsibilities:

1. Designing, planning and carrying out experimental work independently and under the supervision, maintaining regular research notes.

2. Scientific initiative and contribution through regular reporting and publishing, as well as presenting at group meetings, national and international conferences.

3. Cooperation with researchers, including communication with English-speaking colleagues 4. Providing help and supervision to junior members of the group.

5. Contribution to the efficient functioning of the lab including necessary organizational tasks.

We offer 3200 PLN per month stipend financed from the NSC SONATA BIS Project No. 2017/26/E/ST4/00041. The position is for a period of 7 months.

The successful candidate will benefit in form of new knowledge and methods added to his/her toolbox. The project deals with biology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, physics and physical chemistry, so any profile of candidate will find some new knowledge to be gained upon realization of the project.

We plan to publish the results of the work in high impact factor journals.

The successful candidate will be able to take advantage of all programs in the IPC PAS, including Young Scientists of IPC PAS competition and Mobility of Young Scientists of IPC PAS competition.

Institute provides an opportunity to participate in ERASMUS+ programme.

1. Applicant should have a PhD student status according to document „Regulamin przyznawania stypendiów naukowych w projektach badawczych finansowanych ze środków Narodowego Centrum Nauki”: https://ncn.gov.pl/sites/default/files/pliki/uchwaly-rady/2016/uchwala96_2016-zal1.pdf.
2. MSc diploma in chemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, physics or similar.
3. Creativity measured by the quality and number of projects, study record, internships, authorship in peer-reviewed publications and patents in which the Candidate participated and contributed.
4. Experience in biotechnology, virology or similar would be beneficial.
5. Knowledge of physical chemistry and analytical chemistry would be beneficial.
6. Excellent communications, organization and time management skills.
7. Ability to work independently as well as in a group.
8. Analytical thinking and critical problem-solving skills.
9. Fluent in spoken and written English.

The Commission will take into account the following criteria:

•  competences of candidates for specific tasks in a research project,
•  previous scientific achievements of candidates,
•  awards and distinctions of the candidate resulting from the conducted research.

The commission evaluates applications on a point scale.