Assistant Professor in the research staff group

About this position

Department of Immunology and Infectious Biology

Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection

University of Lodz

is seeking

An Assistant Professor (Post-doc) in the Research Staff Group

INSTITUTION: Department of Immunology and Infectious Biology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz

CITY: Lodz, Poland

POSITION: Assistant Professor in the Research Staff Group

EMPLOYMENT: Full-time

SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINE: Biological Sciences, Medical Sciences or Chemical Sciences

EMPLOYMENT PERIOD: 1 February 2027 – 31 July 2027

DATE OF PUBLICATION: 3rd November 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 3rd December 2026

UNIVERSITY WEBSITE:

www.uni.lodz.pl

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Applications should be submitted electronically to:

aleksandra.budzynska@biol.uni.lodz.pl

KEYWORDS: gradient structure, hydroxyapatite, titanium, composites, MXenes, laser surface structuring

POSITION DESCRIPTION

We are seeking an ambitious and committed Post-doc to join our research team within the OPUS LAP Weave 24 project entitled “Next Generation of Bioactive Laser-Structured Biomaterials Based on Ti/HAp/MXene”, carried out within an international consortium. The project focuses on the development of novel bioactive biomaterials for bone tissue regeneration, at the interface of biology, materials science and regenerative medicine.

We are seeking a candidate with a passion for research and an open mind towards interdisciplinary challenges. Experience in research on novel substances with potential therapeutic and regenerative applications, as well as potential carriers for active substances, will be an advantage.

WE OFFER

Employment in an interdisciplinary research project combining biomaterials, cell biology and biological safety assessment, carried out in cooperation with leading research institutions and external partners.

• Access to modern research infrastructure, including confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, cell culture laboratories and molecular analysis platforms, as well as access to university IT systems and platforms.
• The opportunity to develop and pursue individual research ideas within the objectives of the project, initiate new research directions and, optionally, participate in research activities carried out within other projects of the research group.
• Subsidised sports and cultural activities, including discounted FitProfit cards and tickets to cinemas, theatres and museums through the university benefits system.
• Social benefits, including access to the University Social Benefits Fund (ZFŚS), with subsidies for holidays, cultural events and nursery/kindergarten care.
• A modern and supportive working environment based on flexibility, open communication, collaboration and professional development.
• Support for scientific career development, including opportunities for co-authorship of publications in JCR-indexed journals, participation in national and international conferences, and scientific mentoring.
• Work in a friendly and committed team that values open communication, independence and initiative.
• Administrative and project support provided by an experienced research project management team.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment on the project will be based on a full-time employment contract for 6 months. The salary will be in accordance with the NCN OPUS LAP Weave 24 regulations, approximately PLN 11,500 gross per month. The planned starting date is February 2027.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project entitled “Next Generation of Bioactive, Laser-Structured Biomaterials Based on Ti/HAp/MXene” aims to develop an innovative Ti/HAp composite biomaterial designed to improve the durability and biocompatibility of surgical implants. The application of laser surface treatment and MXene is expected to improve the mechanical and tribological properties of the implants.

Laser-generated micropockets and pores will promote cell growth and serve as reservoirs for the lubricant, MXene, a layered material that reduces friction and wear. The project includes in vitro biological studies aimed at assessing the adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of osteogenic cells on the surface of novel Ti/HAp composites containing MXene. The effects of micropores and pockets on cell growth and activity will be investigated to assess the osteoconductive properties of the material.

The project is expected to result in the development of a new generation of high-quality implants with enhanced resistance to degradation and the potential to reduce the need for revision surgery.

KEYWORDS: gradient structure, hydroxyapatite, titanium, composites, MXenes, laser surface structuring

FORMAL REQUIREMENTS

• The candidate must meet the requirements set out in Articles 113 and 116 of the Act of 20 July 2018 on Higher Education and Science, as amended, as well as the Statutes of the University of Lodz. The candidate must have no criminal record with respect to offences specified in Chapters XIX and XXV of the Polish Criminal Code, Articles 189a and 207 of the Polish Criminal Code, and the Act of 29 July 2005 on Counteracting Drug Addiction (consolidated text: Journal of Laws of 2023, item 1939), as well as equivalent offences under foreign law.

• A doctoral degree in pharmaceutical, biological, medical, veterinary or related sciences, obtained at an institution other than the University of Lodz no earlier than 7 years before the year of employment in the project, or completion of at least a 10-month, continuous and documented postdoctoral research stay abroad. The 7-year period may be extended by documented periods of long-term sick leave (more than 90 days) or rehabilitation benefits due to incapacity for work. In addition, periods of parental and childcare leave granted in accordance with the Polish Labour Code may be added to this period. For women, 18 months may be added for each child born or adopted, i