PhD Candidate: How Do Viruses Hijack the Cell's Protein Factory

Department: Gabriel Demo Research Group – Central European Institute of Technology
Deadline: 30 Nov 2026
Start date: February 2027 (by negotiation ? based on spring semester start date)
Job type: part-time
Job field: Science and research

Come to CEITEC MU in Brno and join us!

We are passionate structural biologists at CEITEC looking for  

PhD Candidate:

How do viruses hijack the cell's protein factory

We're excited to announce an open PhD student position in Gabriel Demo's Research Group!

About this position: 

Are you fascinated by viruses, ribosomes, and cutting-edge structural biology techniques? Join our team at CEITEC Masaryk University and investigate how viruses coordinate genome replication with protein synthesis inside infected cells. Viruses rely entirely on host cells to produce their proteins. Recent advances in cryo-electron microscopy have revealed the architecture of viral replication/transcription complexes, but how these molecular machines communicate with the host translation machinery during infection is still an open question.

In this project, you will uncover how viral replication complexes interact with host ribosomes and translation factors to promote efficient viral gene expression. Using an interdisciplinary approach that combines molecular virology, biochemistry, quantitative proteomics, and structural biology, you will explore the molecular interface between viruses and the cellular translation machinery.

This PhD project offers comprehensive training in structural biology, molecular virology, and translation while providing access to high-end cryo-EM infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaborations. You will develop expertise in advanced biochemical, cellular, and structural techniques, and contribute to fundamental discoveries at the interface of virology and translation.

The ideal candidate profile: 

Must-have: 

• MSc or equivalent degree in biochemistry, virology or structural biology 
• Practical experience working in the wet lab, mainly focusing on virology and translation (purification of viruses/ribosomes, virus propagation, cell culture virology, ribosome complex assembly, etc.)
• Theoretical knowledge of single parcticle cryo-electron microscopy or cryo-electron tomography
• Good English language – spoken and written

Nice-to-have:   

• Work experience in cryo-electron microscopy and data analysis
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Motivation and a collaborative mindset

What we provide to you: 

• Open access to CEITEC MU core facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and experienced staff
• Part-time contract complemented by a PhD stipend
• Flexible working hours
• Support for further education and professional development 
• Benefits package: 6 weeks of paid holiday, medical insurance, financial contribution to meal and kindergarten/pension scheme, Multisport card, mental health care, sports lessons directly at the campus 
• Kindergarten Elánek in Campus
• Support in these areas:
  • Welcome Office service before and after arrival 
  • Grant Office support 
  • Postdoc Peer Committee  
  • CEITEC events – workshops, conferences, lectures, training, family gathering etc. 

How to apply? 

Application deadline: 30.11.2026

Start date: February 2027 (by negotiation – based on spring semester start date)

Applications, including a CV, motivation letter, list of publications, and contacts for at least two references should be sent via an e-application.

Any troubles with the e-application, please contact Petra Linhartova (petra.linhartova@ceitec.muni.cz)