Postdoctoral Researcher in Neuro Epigenetics

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.

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. 

• 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 Visualizzare la mail su nature.com .