Postdoc in field of Epigenetics / Epitranscriptomics with Molecular Biology experience

About this position

The Koziol lab is seeking highly motivated candidates with diverse backgrounds interested in applying different approaches to investigating fundamental questions in biology and brain research in the field of epigenetics and epitranscriptomics. Candidates with a strong background and interest in molecular biology or related field are encouraged to apply.

We are interdisciplinary team. Depending on background and interest, the successful candidate can undertake projects focusing on Molecular Biology / Epigenetics / Neurobiology, addressing the following questions from a molecular perspective:

(1) What Epigenetic / Epitranscriptomic changes occur during memory in the brain?

(2) How is RNA involved in cell communication?

(3) What changes occur in the brain in ageing or in neurodegeneration? Can they be reversed?

OUR RESEARCH & LAB

It is becoming increasingly clear that DNA and RNA is not only made of 4 different molecules arranged in a different sequence. These 4 different molecules can be specifically modified in many different ways by designated enzymes of the cell. These modifications encode further information on the DNA and RNA that are critical to cellular function.

These DNA and RNA modifications are essential and can regulate genes, transcripts, cells and brain function.

Our lab explores this new area of research. Although these modifications are usually not detected in DNA and RNA by conventional sequencing approaches, we detect and characterize them by applying and developing novel tools using molecular biology, bioinformatics and mass spectrometry. By studying modifications that can encode additional cellular information and their regulatory molecules, we are addressing fundamental biological questions.

For example, our recent work: Yan et al , 2026, Nature Cell Biology; Li et al , 2026, Advanced Sciences; Larrea et al , 2025, Scientific Reports; Feng et al , 2024, Genome Research)

We are an international lab in a world-class internationally recognized research institute, with a collaborative, interdisciplinary, interactive and dynamic team. We are generously core funded, use the newest state-of-the-art equipment and technologies. Our lab is strongly supported by our in-house core facilities, such as a bioinformatics group, mass spectrometry, instrumentation, FACS, imaging, animal core facilities, etc. For more information about us visit www.DNALaboratory.org .

BENEFITS

Salary and benefits will be provided for successful candidates. We have strong administrative support who can assist with housing, visas and other personal matters.

REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICATION

The candidate must have or is about to obtain a PhD degree in a relevant field, such as Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, Biology, Medicine, Biochemistry or related field. Prior laboratory experience is required. Candidates are expected to be highly motivated, diligent, supervise students and be able to work as part of a team.

No prior knowledge of brain research or DNA and RNA modifications is required. Our institute and lab offer a Chinese and English-speaking environment; therefore, knowing Chinese is NOT required, but English is essential. Before starting the position, we expect the successful candidate to apply for postdoctoral funding, for which we will provide guidance and support.

Starting date is flexible. To apply, please send a cover letter and English CV with email contacts of 2 professional references to Dr Magdalena Koziol ( mjk@cibr.ac.cn ) and to Xue Liang ( xueliang@cibr.ac.cn ).

INSTITUTE

The Chinese Institute for Brain Research, CIBR, is a world-class research institute with the aim to address fundamental questions related the brain. Research areas cover neurobiology, molecular biology, computational science and clinical studies. CIBR is exceptionally funded, has the newest state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, strong administrative and core facility support.

CIBR works in close collaboration with other top institutions, such as China’s top Universities, the National Institute for Biological Sciences NIBS, hospitals, national and international biotech and pharmaceutical companies. For more information visit en.cibr.ac.cn

26 Science Park Road , ZGC Life Science Park, Changping District , Beijing 102206, China ; CIBR Institute Website: en.cibr.ac.cn ; Koziol Laboratory Website: www.DNALaboratory.org