Job Description & How to Apply Below
Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Biology (ERC-Funded Project)
2-years full-time Postdoctoral position
Department of Biology, University of Pisa
Supervisor:
Prof. Vittoria Raffa
Expected starting date:
February 2026
About the Position
The Department of Biology at the University of Pisa invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Researcher to join the multidisciplinary Molecular Biology Research Group led by Prof. Vittoria Raffa.
The successful candidate will work within the ERC Advanced Grant project “Guidance of Axonal Pathfinding via Nano-Switches”, which aims to develop innovative molecular tools to manipulate neuronal mechanotransduction.
About the Lab
The Raffa Lab is the inventor of nano-pulling [1-3], a groundbreaking technology that generates active forces in neurons to promote axon growth and regeneration. Over the past decade, the lab has contributed significantly to uncovering the molecular pathways activated by mechanical forces in neurons, advancing the field of neuronal mechanotransduction.
[1] De Vincentiis et al, V. Extremely Low Forces Induce Extreme Axon Growth (2020) Journal of Neuroscience, 40 (26), pp. .
[2] Falconieri
A. et al. Axonal plasticity in response to active forces generated through magnetic nano-pulling (2023) Cell Reports, 42 (1), art. no. 111912.
[3] De Vincentiis et al. Mechanical Forces Guide Axon Growth through the Nigrostriatal Pathway in an Organotypic Model. Adv. Sci. 2025, 2500400. (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..
Research Area
Applications are invited from outstanding candidates with expertise in molecular biology, biotechnology, and/or synthetic biology, particularly in DNA cloning and the use of viral vectors for mammalian systems.
Research Activity
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with a strong background in molecular biology, and more specifically in DNA cloning using viral vectors. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design and construction of genetic constructs, as well as for the development of viral vectors to achieve (inducible) expression of recombinant proteins in primary neurons or in neurons derived from progenitor cells.
Within the ERC project, neuronal cells will be engineered to express molecular switches capable of generating localized forces, thereby activating defined mechanotransduction pathways. The postdoctoral fellow will also investigate how these mechanical stimuli influence gene expression, with the ultimate goal of elucidating the molecular mechanisms governing neuronal response to mechanical forces. This project provides a unique opportunity to work at the interface of molecular biology, synthetic biology, and neuroengineering within an interdisciplinary and international environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and organize project experiment
Design and cloning of genetic constructs
Expression and validation of recombinant proteins in neuronal systems
Engineering and functional testing of neuronal molecular switches
Supervision and mentoring of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students
Dissemination and communication of project results (papers, conferences, outreach)
Preparation of internal and external project reports
Requirements
There are no age limits; however, candidates under 35 or with less than 5 years since PhD completion are strongly encouraged to apply.
Mandatory keywords for selection: DNA cloning using viral vectors; mammalian cell transduction.
Highly valued ; omics approaches (RNA-seq, ChIP); neuroscience.
Proficiency in English
Ideal Academic Profile
PhD in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related fields from a leading institution
At least two years of international research experience (during or after PhD)
Proven record of scientific excellence and publications
Experience participating in collaborative research projects
Enthusiasm for mentoring and academic teaching
We Offer
A stimulating, interdisciplinary, and international research environment
A network of worldwide collaborators in many countries (Spain, Germany, Japan, USA, etc)
Access to cutting-edge molecular neuroscience and bioengineering facilities
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Opportunities for professional growth and collaboration within an ERC-funded network
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