We are looking for a curious, creative, and driven Postdoctoral Researcher to join the research group of Mathieu Boulard at EMBL Rome to study gene regulation in neurons.
We investigate how chromatin governs olfactory receptor gene choice, an epigenetic mechanism by which olfactory neurons express a single olfactory receptor gene while repressing hundreds of unselected paralogous genes. Our approach uses a combination of mouse genetics, molecular biology, flow cytometry, microscopy, epigenomic and transcriptomic profiling, and computational genomics. Among our latest achievements is the discovery of the first factor that enforces the monogenetic transcription of olfactory receptor genes(Tabaro et al.).
Our team is located in the Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit at EMBL Rome (located 30 min north of Rome, Italy), which offers state-of-the-art core facilities and platforms in a highly dynamic, inclusive, and multi-cultural environment.
Your role
You will play a central role in the exploration of the molecular logic of allelic exclusion using the paradigm of olfactory receptor gene choice. A central goal of the project is to profile chromatin and transcription in subpopulations of olfactory sensory neurons.
This project will be a team effort with other lab members working on related aspects, having generated preliminary results and having developed experimental tools.
The position is ideal for a scientist interested in neuro-epigenetics.
You have
- A PhD in life science.
- A strong interest in functional genome biology and/or molecular neuroscience.
- Expertise in one of the following is essential: chromatin biology and/or mouse genetics.
- Hands-on in vivo experience with mouse models or another model organism.
- Experience with transcriptomics and epigenomic profiling (RNA-seq, Cut&run).
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the highest ethical standards.
You may also have
- Experience with cell sorting with flow cytometry.
- Experience in molecular olfaction is not required.
- Knowledge of Italian is not required.
Why join us
EMBL provides a unique environment for young scientists to conduct ground-breaking research and technology development across the life sciences. The EMBL Epigenetics & Neurobiology Unit, located near Rome, Italy, applies a wide range of modern technologies to diverse problems in developmental and organismal biology, focusing on the laboratory mouse. Research groups within the unit explore topics in epigenetics, gene regulation, sensory processing, and circuits and behavior.
EMBL offers attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation with a highly collegial and family-friendly working environment. The position includes a competitive salary, social security/family benefits, full medical insurance, financial support for relocation, professional development, a supportive culture, and access to extensive training.
EMBL is curiosity-driven, community-oriented and international. As an inclusive, equal opportunity employer, we believe that diversity enables us to collaborate more effectively and be innovative in our approaches.
What else you need to know
Starting date: Before September 1, 2026.
Funding: 12-months contract. Salary will be commensurate with previous experience and in line with EMBL guidelines. The candidate will also be expected to apply for independent funding; assistance and mentoring will be provided throughout the application process.
The candidate will be strongly supported for career development, will benefit from technical and soft skill courses, and will have opportunities for mentoring students.
EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here.
We actively encourage applications from all genders and cultures, ethnic groups and all demographics.
How to apply: Please submit a cover letter, your CV, and the contact details of 2 referees through our online system. We are reviewing applications as they arrive; candidates are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible.
Questions: For more information on the project and lab life at EMBL Rome, please contact Mathieu Boulard at matthieu.boulard@embl.it.
Professional development support
The EMBL Fellows’ Career Service provides support and guidance to predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows across all six EMBL’s sites.
Working with a dedicated Careers Advisor, this invaluable service will help you to take informed decisions about your career planning both in the short and longer term. Whether your main interest is pursuing a career path in academia, exploring opportunities in industry or exploring an independent venture, the EMBL Fellows’ Career Service with provide you with a portfolio of activities and resources to help you.
To find out more please visit - EMBL-fellows-career-service
Why join us
Enjoy lots of employee benefits:
Financial incentives: Monthly family and child allowances, generous stipend reviewed yearly, pension scheme, death benefit and unemployment insurances
Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working patterns
Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family
Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year in addition to public holidays
Campus life: Free shuttle bus (Heidelberg), on-site library, subsidised on-site cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)
Family benefits: Kindergarten (Heidelberg), 10 days of child sick leave, paid maternity & parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances
What else you need to know
International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants.
Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities and/or any other diverse backgrounds.
Job location: All our fellowships are based on-site (for at least part of each week). If you are living overseas, you will receive a generous relocation package to support you.
EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here
How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. Applications will close at 23:59 CET on the date shown below. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date.
Closing Date
18/07/2026