Postdoc, Legnini Group, FIS3 POLARIS project

Build the science that shapes the future of human health.

Application closing date: 24.03.2026

Expected start date: end May – beginning June 2026 (flexible).

Join a place where ambitious science thrives

Human Technopole (Milan) is a rapidly expanding life science institute where international researchers and cutting-edge technologies converge to accelerate biomedical discovery. Our mission is to transform bold scientific ideas into advances that improve human health.

Within this mission, the Legnini Group (https://humantechnopole.it/en/research-groups/legnini-group/) combines molecular and systems biology approaches to study gene regulation. We use synthetic biology and optogenetics to engineer cells and organoids with the aim of reproducing complex regulatory cascades, then apply integrative transcriptomic readouts to understand the principles of gene regulation, particularly in neurodevelopment. At the same time, we use and develop high-throughput transcriptomic technologies and quantitative models to study mRNA regulation from synthesis to degradation.

Your mission

Within the FIS-funded POLARIS project (FIS-2024-04993, CUP B53C25003890001), we are seeking a highly motivated postdoc to investigate the mechanisms and regulatory principles of poly(A) tails in the control of mRNA metabolism, by linking fundamental molecular mechanisms to higher cellular functions and laying new foundations for RNA-based technologies. The successful candidate will work at the crossroads of molecular biology, biochemistry and genomics employing state-of-the-art sequencing technologies including third-generation sequencing, advanced cell culture including stem cells and organoids, biochemical reconstitution of complex regulatory processes of RNA metabolism.  

Grow your skills
You will enhance your scientific and professional skills by working with:

• Mammalian cell lines and primary cultures, induced pluripotent stem cells and  organoids.
• Advanced transcriptomic technologies and computational genomics.
• High-throughput imaging assays.
• Biochemical reconstitutions and in vitro assays.
• A growing and dynamic research team: the Legnini Group is composed of a young Group Leader with a well-established lab with 2 Postdocs, 3 PhD students, 1 Senior Technician and 1 intern, and which will grow soon with new hires thanks to recently funded projects.
• Consolidated international collaborators.
• Cutting-edge facilities.

Additionally, Human Technopole supports career development through training, mentoring and dedicated learning opportunities.

What you'll bring

Essential

• Holding a PhD in a life science discipline by the time of application or the position starting date
• Good knowledge of RNA biology
• Solid background in molecular biology, and/or biochemistry and/or structural biology and/or systems biology.
• Previous experience with RNA sequencing techniques.
• Consolidated experience in mammalian cell culture, including pluripotent stem cells and organoids, and/or primary cultures
• Fluency in English, the working language of HT.

Preferred

• Basic skills with R or Python programming.
• Experience with fluorescence imaging techniques and analyses.
• Experience with protein purification and in vitro assays, and/or structural/biophysical analyses.

Organizational and social skills

• Ability to work accurately, with attention to detail.
• Motivation and independence, with the ability to organise your own workload and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Collaborative attitude, team player.
• Ability to work across different disciplines.
• Commitment to working in a diverse, international research setting.

At HT, your discoveries contribute to a global effort to improve human health.

Why Human Technopole

HT offers an international and dynamic workplace, competitive welfare provisions, flexible working policies and relocation support. Researchers moving to Italy may benefit from attractive tax benefits. We promote work–life balance and provide parental support initiatives.

How to apply
Submit:
• CV
• Motivation letter (English)
• Contact details of two referees

This is a 5-year contract offered under CCNL Chimico Farmaceutico, Employee B2 Level

Salary: 40k

The position is based in Milan, Italy, within our vibrant international campus.
We strongly encourage applications from candidates belonging to protected categories (L. 68/99).

The POLARIS project “Mechanisms and Regulatory Principles of Poly(A) Tails in the Control of mRNA Metabolism” is funded by MUR under the FIS3 Fondo Italiano di Scienza (FIS-2024-04993, CUP B53C25003890001).