Postdoctoral Researcher / Senior Research Assistant

Postdoctoral Researcher / Senior Research Assistant (Stem Cell Biology & Human Skin Organoids)

Medical University of Vienna – Institute of Medical Genetics

The research group of Associate Professor Mario Mikula at the Institute of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher or Senior Research Assistant to join our team. We are looking for an enthusiastic scientist with strong experimental skills and a genuine interest in stem cell biology, cancer research, and advanced human in vitro models.

About the Position

The position combines an independent research project with laboratory coordination responsibilities, with an approximate workload of 70% research and 30% laboratory coordination.

Research Project (approximately 70%)

The successful candidate will lead a project focused on the generation and characterization of human skin organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). The project includes:

• Genetic engineering of human embryonic stem cells using CRISPR/Cas9 technologies
• Differentiation of genetically modified hPSCs into human skin organoids
• Phenotypic characterization using flow cytometry, immunofluorescence microscopy, histology, and molecular analyses
• Single-cell and next-generation sequencing approaches
• Integration of experimental findings into models of skin biology and cancer

Laboratory Coordination (approximately 30%)

In addition, the successful candidate will support the research group by serving as a central laboratory coordinator. Responsibilities include:

• Coordination of laboratory ordering and inventory
• Maintenance and documentation of laboratory resources
• Organization and quality control of generated cell lines and other shared biological materials
• General support of laboratory operations and research activities

Candidate Profile

Applicants should hold either:

• a PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, Genetics, or a related discipline, or
• substantial research experience as a laboratory scientist/technical expert in an internationally competitive molecular biology laboratory.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should have demonstrated experience in:

• Human pluripotent stem cell culture and quality control
• Genome engineering using CRISPR/Cas9
• Standard molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA, RNA and protein isolation, PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, ELISA, and flow cytometry
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Experience with organoid models, next-generation sequencing, and single-cell genomics is considered an advantage.

We are looking for candidates with a high level of scientific motivation and a strong interest in stem cell biology, cancer research, and advanced three-dimensional in vitro model systems.

What We Offer

• A 1-year fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension for up to six years, in accordance with the collective agreement (Kollektivvertrag) of the Medical University of Vienna
• An exciting research project with significant scientific independence
• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including:
• A collaborative, interdisciplinary, and internationally oriented research environment

Recent Publications from the Mikula Laboratory

• British Journal of Cancer (2024)
  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41416-024-02758-9
• Cell Death & Disease (2025)
  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41419-025-08367-5
• Neoplasia (2025)
  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neo.2025.101154

How to Apply

Please submit a single PDF containing:

• Cover letter describing your research interests and relevant expertise
• Curriculum vitae, including publication list
• Contact details of 2–3 academic referees

Please send your application to:

mario.mikula(at)meduniwien.ac.at

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will remain open until the position is filled.

Preferred starting date: As soon as possible or upon mutual agreement.

Working Language

The working language of the laboratory is English. Knowledge of German is beneficial.