Postdoc in Plant Molecular Biology

Institute of Plant Molecular Biology

Plant Terrestrialization

Employment contract

Research group of Dr Lenka Caisová is developing the green multicellular alga Draparnaldia as a new model system to study developmental complexity and adaptations to terrestrial habitats in green algae. We now have strong evidence that Draparnaldia could serve as an important model for addressing evolutionary questions that could not be studied previously. Moreover, the potential of this alga has also been recognized by the German Botanical and Algological Society, which selected Draparnaldia as the Alga of the Year 2025. For few last years we have been developing fundamental tools and resources that will allow the algal and plant research communities to implement Draparnaldia in their studies. In fact, the last piece that is missing in this toolkit is the genetic tractability of the alga. Therefore, we are looking for the expert with a good knowledge of molecular biology, including promoter design, transformation protocols, CRISPR/Cas techniques and sexual crosses to join our team.

Competitive candidates:

• Hold a PhD in Life Sciences, ideally with a focus in molecular biology, genetics, or a related field
• Possess strong expertise in promoter design, molecular cloning, transformation techniques, and CRISPR-based genome editing
• Have experience with bioinformatics tools — while not mandatory, this is a valuable advantage
• Have prior experience working with algae or other non-model organisms – desirable but not essential
• Demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for science, critical thinking, and a strong creative drive
• Should be resilient, creative, open to new ideas and skilful in communication
• Enjoy working as part of a team – willing to support colleagues and benefit from shared expertise
• Should be fluent in English, both spoken and written, to effectively contribute to international collaboration and dissemination of results

We offer:

• Full time position for one year with possibility of extension for additional 10-12 months
• Tentative starting date (negotiable) on 01 December 2025
• Opportunity for professional growth
• 5 weeks of paid holiday yearly, subsidized lunches in our own canteen
• Pension insurance contribution, support of leisure sport & cultural activities
• Full health insurance and social security, student benefits for PhD students
• Free Czech language classes, professional trainings and mentoring programme
• Concessionary services at the contractual operator and bank
• Campus-based daycare for employees' children from the age of 1 year
• Welcome service and further support for foreigners (HR Award)
• English speaking, friendly & stimulating international working environment
• Work-life balance in a middle-sized university city offering options for various activities
• Working in a stable, prestigious research institution of international importance

The Biology Centre is located in České Budějovice (max. 2 hours south of the capital Prague), a safe middle-sized city with ca. 100K inhabitants, relaxed atmosphere, historical centre and a breathtaking countryside around providing numerous opportunities for research and leisure activities. It has a growing international expert community at the Biology Centre CAS and the neighbouring University of South Bohemia. Check out our Guide for Expats to read about life in the city and the Czech Republic.

The Biology Centre holds the HR Award. Our selection process is transparent, open, non-discriminating and fair. For more information about the researchers recruitment policy at our institution, see our OTM-R. We provide our employees from abroad with welcome service (visa application, administration, relocation & settlement support).

Please submit your

• structured CV including contacts of two referees (max 4 pages),
• motivation letter (max 1 page)
• and PhD diploma

via the REPLY button below by 15 November 2025 23:59 CET.

Interviews with selected applicants will be held after the application deadline.

Informal inquiries can be directed via email to lenka.caisova@umbr.cas.cz.