University of Warsaw Opens PhD Position in Antibacterial Research under NCN SONATA BIS 13 (Fully Funded)

The Centre of New Technologies (CeNT) at the University of Warsaw, in collaboration with the Project Leader Dr Monika Wojciechowska, has officially announced a competition for one PhD Student position in the Biomolecular Machines Laboratory. The position is offered under the National Science Centre (NCN) funded SONATA BIS 13 research project focused on the development of next-generation antibacterial agents.

This funded PhD opportunity is aimed at early-career researchers in chemical sciences, particularly those interested in bioorganic chemistry, chemical biology, and peptide-based antibacterial strategies.

About the Research Project

The project, titled “Development of New Antibacterial Agents Based on Lytic Enzymes Produced by Bacteriophages,” explores innovative approaches to combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

The research focuses on phage endolysins as promising antibacterial tools. Using advanced chemical methods, the project aims to:

• Combine endolysins with membrane-active peptides to overcome bacterial outer membranes

• Identify peptide fragments with strong antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria

• Develop stabilized and modified peptides with enhanced biological performance

The work sits at the intersection of chemistry, biology, and biophysics, offering exposure to cutting-edge antimicrobial research.

Position Details

• Position: PhD Student

• Laboratory: Biomolecular Machines Laboratory

• Institution: Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw

• Scientific Discipline: Chemical Sciences (bioorganic chemistry, chemical biology)

• NCN Programme: SONATA BIS 13

• Project Leader: Dr Monika Wojciechowska

• Number of Positions: 1

• Job Type: Stipend

• Monthly Stipend: PLN 5,000 (gross gross)

• Start Date: 1 April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter

• Duration: 36 months, with possible extension up to 40 months

Key Responsibilities

The selected PhD student will be actively involved in:

• Synthesis of peptides and structurally stabilized peptide analogues

• Performing stability assays, CD spectroscopy, and hemolysis experiments

• Conjugation of peptides with enzymes

• Preparation of research reports and scientific presentations

• Presentation of results at internal and national/international scientific meetings

Candidate Profile & Eligibility

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set by the National Science Centre (NCN) for SONATA BIS 13 funded positions.

Essential requirements include:

• MSc degree in chemistry, organic chemistry, biological chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, or a related discipline (to be completed before project start)

• Confirmed PhD student status by the start date of the position

Additional advantages:

• Experience in organic synthesis

• Background in biochemical or biophysical studies of peptides or proteins

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare:

1. Cover letter

2. Current curriculum vitae

3. Copy of MSc diploma (or official confirmation of the MSc defence date)

4. Document confirming PhD student status (to be provided before starting work)

5. Signed consent for personal data processing

6. List of completed courses with grades, publications, conference presentations, and other academic achievements

Candidates are required to familiarise themselves with the Internal Reporting Procedure before entering the competition.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted by email to:
📧 [email protected]

Application Deadline: 28 February 2026
Results Announcement: Not earlier than 9 March 2026
Notification Method: Email and CeNT UW official website

For project-related enquiries, applicants may contact Dr Monika Wojciechowska at the same email address.

Why Apply at CeNT, University of Warsaw?

The Centre of New Technologies offers:

• Research at the interface of chemistry, physics, and biological sciences

• A collaborative and supportive research environment

• Opportunities for international collaboration and scientific growth

Lab website: http://bionano.cent.uw.edu.pl

Notofication and Apply

For more opportunities, click here.