Location: Lipidomics group of Michal Holčapek, University of Pardubice, Faculty of Chemical Technology, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Czech Republic
Start Date: January 2025 (or as soon as possible)
Duration: 12 months, with a possibility of extension until the end of the project (August 2028)
Location: Lipidomics Group of Prof. Michal Holčapek, University of Pardubice, Faculty of Chemical Technology, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Czech Republic
Salary: Competitive, based on university guidelines, and commensurate with experience and skills.
About the Projects
You will be joining the dynamic Lipidomics Group at the University of Pardubice, working on high-impact research funded by prestigious grants:
- OP JAK grant “Saving lives through research in early cancer detection and prevention: Molecular, genomic and societal factors (SALVAGE)”
- ERC Advanced grant “Oncolipidomics: Why is lipidomic dysregulation pattern in blood similar for various cancers? (ONCOLIPID)”
1. Lipidomics Postdoc
You will be involved in the complete lipidomic analysis workflow, including:
- Sample preparation using established extraction protocols.
- Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS).
- Data processing using LipidQuant software.
- Advanced statistical evaluation using multivariate analysis tools (e.g., Simca, R-scripts).
This role offers hands-on experience with state-of-the-art instrumentation and in-depth exposure to lipidomics applied to cancer biomarker discovery.
2. Glycomics Postdoc
You will focus on the glycomic analysis of glycans enzymatically released from glycosphingolipids, including:
- Sample preparation including enzymatic cleavage of glycans.
- UHPLC/MS.
- Identification of glycan sequences from MS/MS spectra, retention behavior, and ion mobility data, and quantitation.
- Advanced statistical evaluation using multivariate analysis tools (e.g., Simca, R-scripts).
This position offers the opportunity to innovate in data processing workflows and contribute to cutting-edge glycomics research.
Requirements for Both Positions
- Ph.D. in (bio)analytical chemistry or a closely related field.
- Proficiency in mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography.
- Strong passion for scientific research, reliability, and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team.
Preferred but not required
- Experience in lipidomic, metabolomic, or glycomic analysis.
- Familiarity with supercritical fluid chromatography-mass spectrometry.
- Experience with TIMS-TOF (Bruker), QTOF (Waters), or QQQ (Sciex, Agilent) instruments.
- Knowledge of software tools for metabolomics/lipidomics (e.g., MZmine, Skyline).
About the Lipidomics Research Group
Our group is an international, collaborative team of over 15 postdoctoral researchers and students. We offer a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, with access to cutting-edge technology. We specialize in lipidomics and metabolomics by mass spectrometry, focusing on cancer biomarker discovery. Our patented methodology for the early detection of pancreatic and other cancers is currently being translated into clinical applications through our spin-off company, Lipidica.
We provide comprehensive training in lipidomic techniques to all new members, including hands-on experience with the latest instruments and software.
Our research facilities
1/ Mass spectrometers: timsTOF Ultra (Bruker), QTOF Synapt G2Si (Waters), QTOF Xevo G2-XS (Waters), QTOF micrOTOF-QII (Bruker), MALDI LTQ Orbitrap XL (Thermo), 6500 QTRAP (Sciex), and Xevo TQD (Waters).
2/ Chromatographs: 2x ultrahigh-performance supercritical fluid chromatograph Waters ACQUITY UPC2 system (Waters), ACQUITY Premier UPLC Bioinert System (Waters), and 2x UHPLC Agilent 1290 Infinity series (Agilent).
3/ Additional laboratory equipment: Microbiological Safety Cabinet Mars Class II (LaboGene), Microbiological Safety Cabinet Class II MSC-Advantage™ Class II (ThermoFisher), Lab freezers (Arctiko), Homogenizer Combo Precellys Evolution + Cryolys Evolution (Bertin), etc.
4/ Software for data processing: MarkerLynx (Waters), LipidQuant (our software), LipidView (Sciex), Simca (Umetrics), MetaboScape and TASQ ® Software (Bruker).
How to Apply
If you are enthusiastic about joining a world-class research team, please send the following documents:
- A motivation letter detailing your research interests and why you want to join our group.
- Your CV, including a description of your skills and relevant experience.
Candidates with strong experimental skills in mass spectrometry and chromatography will be prioritized. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a Zoom interview.
Note: The position remains open until filled. Early applications are encouraged.
Prof. Michal Holčapek, Ph.D.
University of Pardubice
Faculty of Chemical Technology, Department of Analytical Chemistry
Studentska 573, 53210 Pardubice, Czech Republic
Phone: +420 466 037 087
Email: Michal.Holcapek@upce.cz
Web: https://holcapek.upce.cz/
