We are advertising a 3-year lead position for a postdoctoral researcher to join the established Omics Approaches research group (Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology) at the National Institute of Biology (NIB).

Planned Research Work

The selected candidate will lead the metabolic modeling efforts within our Biotechnology pillar. The primary goal is to use computational modeling and network analysis to design optimized growth media for animal cells lines used in biotechnology. This work involves the development and application of genome-scale metabolic models to characterize cellular growth and nutritional requirements. The researcher will work in close collaboration with the rest of the Omics Team and with the Slovenian biotech sector to ensure that computational models are integrated with industrial data and applied to real-world bioprocessing challenges.

About the Research Group

Our group is highly interdisciplinary, bringing together biologists, biochemists, mathematicians, and engineers to solve complex biological questions. Our research is structured around two primary pillars. The first focus is Plant Systems Biology, where we investigate the complex mechanisms of how plants balance stress responses versus growth, utilizing multi-omics data to improve crop resilience and yield. The second pillar is Biotechnology, where we are expanding our systems biology expertise into diverse areas including animal cell production systems. This focus involves the characterization and engineering of cell lines to support the transition toward sustainable biotechnology and cellular agriculture.

About the Department and Institute

The National Institute of Biology (NIB) is the largest independent public research institute for natural sciences in Slovenia, offering a vibrant, collaborative environment in the newly established Biotechnology Hub in Ljubljana. At the Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology (FITO), we generate cutting‑edge knowledge aimed at a holistic understanding on complex biological systems. This is achieved using state‑of‑the‑art equipment, participation in European research infrastructures, and involvement in numerous European and other international projects. The department is well known for its work in plant systems biology, bioinformatics and statistics, virus and bacterial research, genetically modified organism research, and therapeutic viruses. The transfer of top‑level research into biotechnological applications has resulted in the establishment of two high‑tech spin‑off companies in the last ten years.

What We Expect

This position is intended for a candidate with a PhD in Systems Biology, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or a related field. Applicants should possess experience in metabolic modeling and have proficiency in Python or MATLAB. We value a mindset focused on bridging the gap between basic systems biology and industrial application. Because of our extensive international collaborations and industry partnerships, an excellent command of English and the ability to lead and work effectively within diverse teams are essential.

What We Offer

This three-year postdoctoral position offers a lead role in a pioneering research direction with significant autonomy. Successful candidates will have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure within the NIB biotechnology hub and direct collaboration with leading Slovenian and international high-tech companies. We provide a supportive, international environment in Ljubljana, which is one of Europe's most liveable and greenest capitals, fostering both professional growth and personal development.

Start Date and Duration

The position is available immediately with funding secured for a three-year duration.

Application

For additional information please contact Dr. Anže Županič and Dr. Miha Tome (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

Applications including a motivation letter, CV, and references (or the names and email addresses of potential referees) should be submitted by 15 May 2026 to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..