Scholarship holder-master’s student (2 positions)

Requirements :

• first-year master’s student status at the Faculty
of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University;
• good command of English;
• practical knowledge of basic techniques in
molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and bioinformatics;
• motivation for scientific work and the ability to conduct independent research
.

The candidate is also required to fulfill tasks arising from
the responsibilities of a second-cycle student at the Faculty
of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University.

Description of tasks :

We are offering the opportunity to work on the research project OPUS 27, UMO
2024/53/B/NZ1/03079 entitled “A Unique Metallopeptidase (M97 Family) in
the Biology and Pathogenesis of Bacteroidota Bacterial Species.”

The project involves characterizing a unique bacterial protease called
zusalysin, belonging to the M97 family. Preliminary in vitro studies
performed on a recombinant protein derived from the bacterium
Porphyromonas gingivalis indicate its remarkable ability to
form multimeric forms, making zusalysin the largest
protease described to date. Preliminary studies also suggest that
zusalysin is a periplasmic protease with broad substrate specificity
. The students’ research will be focused on
understanding the biological function of the protease in P. gingivalis and
characterizing zusalysins from other selected bacterial species.

Project leader: Prof. Dr. hab. Jan Potempa
Project implementation period: 10/01/2025 – 09/01/2029

NCN competition type : OPUS – NZ
Deadline for submitting offers : October 31, 2026, 00:00
Form of submitting offers : email
Employment conditions :

• scholarship agreement – scientific scholarship on the terms specified
in the “Regulations for granting NCN scientific scholarships in
research projects financed by the National
Science Centre”;
• monthly scholarship amount: PLN 2,000.00;
• planned period of granting the scholarship: 8 months (with the possibility
of extension by 12 months);
• planned start date of the scholarship period: December 2026 / January 2027.
The work will be carried out in a laboratory at the Faculty of Biochemistry,
Biophysics and Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University.

Additional information :

1. We offer:
• work in a well-equipped laboratory with access to
modern research equipment;
• a supportive working environment that also allows you
to develop a high degree of independence;
• work with the best specialists in the field of
bacterial proteases;
• the opportunity to participate in scientific conferences.

2. The competition procedure will be carried out in accordance with
the Regulations for the award of NCN scholarships in
research projects financed by the National
Science Centre.

3. Required documents:
• CV (including a description of laboratory experience, information on
previous scientific activities and achievements);
• cover letter addressed to the Project Manager – prof. dr hab.
Jan Potempa;
• signed declaration on the processing of personal data
(form to download: Document templates –
Science Support Center – Jagiellonian University, https://cwn.uj.edu.pl/wynagrodzenia/przepisy).

The documents should be sent to the e-mail address: danuta.mizgalska@uj.edu.pl.

4. The Competition Committee reserves the right to:
• interview selected candidates who,
based on the information contained in the submitted documents, received
the highest scores;
• notify
only the selected candidate of the decision to fill the position;
• the possibility of an inconsistency in the competition.
Deadline for competition results: 16/11/2026.
Any additional questions should be directed to Dr. Danuta Mizgalska at the following
email address: danuta.mizgalska@uj.edu.pl.