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The main scientific goal of this project is to develop electrochemical microsensors that allow analysis of neurobiologically relevant analytes such as matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) and neurotransmitters. Although dopamine is the first and most often analyzed till this day neurotransmitter detected by electrochemical means regardless the effort made for simultaneous detection of dopamine and serotonin no reliable method was proposed. In the case of MMP-9 the main problem of the available electrochemical sensors is their mode of action based on peptide cleavage which does not allow constant detection. After the peptide is cleaved the sensor is considered consumed.

Sensors proposed in this project are based on ion-transfer voltammetry. Traditional voltammetric techniques quantify exchange of electrons between the molecule of interest and the electrode but in case of ion-transfer voltammetry the molecule does not have to be electroactive. The prerequisite for the detection is the charge of the molecule. Because of this ion-transfer voltammetry became an interesting means to electrochemically analyze non-electroactive molecules such as proteins, and could potentially serve as a method of constant detection of MMP-9 in neuronal cultures.

The main hurdle in simultaneous analysis of dopamine and serotonin is not only their similar detection potential, which requires employment of electrode modification strategies but also polymerization of dopamine at physiological pH, which causes inactivation of the sensor. Given the huge effort of the scientific community to solve this problem the proposed strategy will be twofold. First, sensors will be fabricated from double barrel capillaries in a way allowing both modes of detection, at one side by means of ion-transfer voltammetry, at the other using well established methods of voltammetric analysis of dopamine on carbon. Secondly, machine learning methods will be applied to quantify both compound based on multivariate curve resolution or multivariate regression.

Evaluation of recognition molecules for the detection of neurtransmitters and proteins,

Development of systems for ion-transfer voltammetry

We offer a post-doctoral position (full-time employment) in the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS with a gross salary of 10 000 PLN per month financed from the NCN SONATA Project No. 2020/39/D/ST4/02256. International cooperation with experienced researchers. Autonomous position in the professional and dynamically developing innovative team. The successful candidate is expected to start work within the project: the earliest 01.10.2021. 100% of the work time of the postdoc researcher will be devoted to the realization of the proposed project.

The successful candidate will benefit in form of new knowledge and methods added to his/her toolbox. 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.

Ability to work independently as well as in a group.

Analytical thinking and problem solving

PhD degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, catalysis sciences, obtained no earlier than 7 years before the starting year of the employment in the project (this period might be longer due to family reasons (according to NCN rules).

Strong motivation to work and pursue scientific questions, creativity, and analytical thinking.

Experience in supervising and teaching students.

Experience in electrochemistry especially regarding ion-selective electrodes, use of ionophores, detection of neurotransmitters will be a plus.

The Commission will take into account the following criteria:

competencies 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.

Complete application should include the following items: employment application, professional curriculum vitae, university degree diploma and PhD certificate, a list of scientific achievements (publications, patents, conference presentations, etc.). The application deadline is on 25th of July 2021.

Top candidates will be invited for an on-line or in person interview. Good command of English is required. We reserve the right to contact and reply to only selected candidates.

A position will be offered to the person who obtains the highest number of points.

The results of the recruitment will be announced till 31st of July 2021.

The incomplete applications will be not considered.

The results of the competition are made public.

If the top candidate does not sign the contract, due to the resignation, we reserve the right to choose the next candidate from the ranking list.