Přehled
About the position:
Applications are invited for a research position in the Proteomics research group led by Prof. Zbyněk Zdráhal to join the Toward Next Generation Crops (TANGENC) project, which is currently registered. number CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004581, in Program Johannes Amos Comenius (Czech Republic – The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, co-funded by the European Union).
The main objectives of the proteomics research group are the development of proteomic methodology with a focus on plant proteomics.
Generally, research interests focus on the development/optimization of all steps in the proteomic workflow, with the aim of maximizing the information obtained by analyzing the given sample. More specifically, we are mainly focused on:
MALDI-MS profiling – development of new sample preparation protocols improving the discriminatory power of the technique for distinguishing bacterial strains of closely related species; application of the technique for other types of samples (e.g., malting barley varieties, spider venoms, bacteriophages); development of techniques for rapid MALDI-MS profiling of N-glycans for differentiation of lung cancer types.
Histone post-translational modifications – we develop a robust bottom-up workflow for characterizing the dynamics of histone modifications, namely acetylations, methylations, and phosphorylations, with a focus on plant samples.
Development of tools for proteomic data processing – we develop workflows for data processing using the Knime platform in combination with software containers.
The expertise of the proteomics research group lies in operating in collaborations covering a wide range of research topics. As examples:
Pollen proteomics – cooperation with the team of David Honys from the Institute of Experimental Botany, Czech Academy of Sciences, dealing with the study of the role of cell–cell communication in male–female recognition during plant sexual reproduction.
Characterization of Disheveled proteins – collaboration with the team of Vítězslav Bryja from the Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, focusing on the characterization of post-translational modifications of these key players in Wnt signaling pathways.
Prof. Zbyněk Zdráhal is also the head of the Proteomics Core Facility, which provides academic and other entities with access to advanced proteomic technologies based on shared resources and the know-how of highly trained staff. The effective utilization of state-of-the-art mass spectrometric instrumentation promotes an understanding of proteome complexity in response to the demands of the research community. Thus, the Core Facility is involved in a broad range of projects that require protein characterization, encompassing fields such as biochemistry, molecular and structural biology, human and veterinary medicine, microbiology, plant science, agriculture, and food sciences.
The core facility operates a set of mass spectrometers that allow us to cover a wide range of proteomic applications (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS and LC-MS/MS systems).
The researcher in this position will primarily be involved in research activities within Project TANGENC’s work package No. 4, Hybridization (Genomic conflicts accompanying polyploidization and interspecific hybridization).
Requirements:
Strong expertise in at least one of the following specializations: characterization of the modification status of plant histones, LC-MS/MS analysis of histone extracts from crop plants, Processing of data from MS/MS analysis.
Good oral and written communication skills in English and Czech.
Creative, practical lab experience.
Independence, accountability, and reliability.
Good communication and organizational skills.
We offer:
Young, enthusiastic, and progressive scientific team
An attractive salary and benefits package (6 weeks of paid holiday, financial meal contribution, multisport card, and sports lessons directly at the campus, unique employee bank products, kindergarten/pension scheme)
Background of a recognized and successful institution with a supportive and international working environment
Environment promoting interdisciplinarity in research
Support for further education and professional development
As part of the team, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art instrumentation available in CEITEC Core Facilities (https://www.ceitec.eu/core-facilities/) and guidance from skilled staff members. Additionally, you’ll be integrated into a broader collaborative network focused on transferring and developing knowledge to enhance crop resilience to abiotic stress.
Welcome Office service before arrival
Grant Office service and support
Postdoc Committee Association
CEITEC events – seminars, workshops, conferences, lectures, training, family gathering
Additional information:
Start date: 1 January 2026
FTE: 20 hours/week (0,5 FTE)
Duration: initial full-time fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of extension up to 30. 6. 2028.
Application deadline: 30. 11. 2025 or until the position is filled
