Group leader

Group Leader – Genome Editing

Job type: Principal Investigator

Qualification: PhD

Job duration: fixed 4-year term

Job hours: full-time

Description

Vilnius University Life Sciences Center EMBL Partnership Institute for Genome Editing Technologies invites applications for a full-time appointment at the rank of Group Leader with an anticipated start date of September 1, 2024.

The VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute focuses on research and development of next-generation genome editing tools and technologies, enabling innovative applications and translational research. We seek exceptional candidates with strong expertise in the fields of genome editing, RNA engineering, or delivery technologies. The ideal applicant is an early career researcher, wishing to establish a research group as an independent researcher.

We offer a four-year appointment that includes a competitive salary within an 800,000 EUR starting package, a very collegial working environment and world-class research facilities. This appointment can be extended for five additional years upon positive evaluation.

Your role

You will carry out an original research project in the field of genome editing technologies, where you will lead and manage an independent research group in pursuing ambitious research goals. You will work in close collaboration with the other five groups that form the VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute. You will be expected to apply for national and international grants, and to supervise undergraduate and graduate students. Students pursuing a PhD in your laboratory will typically receive governmental scholarships independent of your core funding.

Qualification

You should have an excellent record of accomplishment that demonstrates your curiosity and passion for addressing emerging problems within the scope of our institute. You should hold a PhD (or equivalent degree) in cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related area. Your record should include demonstrated excellence in research, mentoring, attracting funding and disseminating your achievements. Beyond the quality, originality, and feasibility of your research plan, your potential for synergy within the VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute will be highly valued.

Why join us

In 2020, the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center (VU LSC) established a partnership with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) with the aim of developing the next generation of genome editing technologies. As a member of this Partnership, you will benefit from the scientific and technological potential of the VU LSC in targeted genome modification and EMBL’s broad excellence in the life sciences.

Our Partnership Institute is situated within the VU LSC, which hosts over 50 research groups, 200 senior researchers and more than 1 000 students. As the nation’s leading research organization, Vilnius University ensures steady access to young talents, both local and foreign. At each level, we strive for internationality, diversity and equality, and thus strongly encourage your application. Finally, to learn more about the exceptional quality of life offered in Vilnius, Lithuania, please visit: https://www.govilnius.lt/

All qualified candidates are invited to apply by e-mail below. Applications must include:

1) motivation (cover) letter; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) list of publications 4) PhD diploma/certificate; 5) statement of research interests describing past research accomplishments; 6) research proposal of 3–5 pages including figures; 7) names and contact information of 3 referees  

Please apply until April 30, 2024:  [email protected]

Other useful information

Recruitment of the candidate will be based on their scientific excellence and the quality of the research proposal. The proposed research project will be evaluated on its not only quality, originality, and feasibility but also on the benefits it will bring to the VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute. We are committed to treating all applicants fairly, avoiding any discrimination. Vilnius University operates as an equal opportunity employer and as such encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

Candidates must not submit information in their application that is confidential and/or protected by the intellectual property rights of the third parties and may contravene any rights of the third parties.

Selection process

Each application will be reviewed by the Search Committee.  Successful applicants will be invited for an online interview in May 2024. The same interview conditions will be applied for all candidates.

Further information about the group leader position can be found at: www.gmc.vu.lt