Postdoc position in RNA Technologies Flagship – Foundation Models for RNA Regulatory Networks: from RNA-RNA Interactions to RNA-DNA Genome Regulation
Contract: postdoc (2 years, renewable)
Location: Genoa
Step into a world of endless possibilities, together let’s leave something for the future!
At IIT, we are committed to advancing human-centered Science and Technology to address the most urgent societal challenges of our era. We foster excellence in both fundamental and applied research, spanning fields such as neuroscience and cognition, humanoid technologies and robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and material sciences, offering a truly interdisciplinary scientific experience. Our approach integrates cutting-edge tools and technology, empowering researchers to push the limits of knowledge and innovation. With us, your curiosity will know no bounds.
We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment. We value the unique experiences, knowledge, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives of our people. By embracing diversity, we believe science can achieve its fullest potential.
THE ROLE
Within the RNA Technologies Flagship Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) is seeking a highly motivated postdoc with a strong background in applying machine learning and deep learning techniques to the biological sciences. The ideal candidate will have expertise in artificial intelligence, with a specific focus on deep learning applications in structural biology. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team operating at the intersection of computational genomics, RNA biology, and precision medicine. The goal is to build a strategic institutional resource for advancing discoveries in cancer, neurodevelopmental, and neurodegenerative disorders, through the integration of computational modeling of RNA and understanding RNA interactions.
For more information about the RNA Technologies Flagship, visit: https://rna.iit.it/
The project aims to develop a new generation of artificial intelligence models to systematically investigate the role of RNA molecules in gene regulation and human disease. The central goal is to build a predictive framework capable of reconstructing and interpreting RNA-mediated interactions at genome scale by integrating large experimental, interactomic and multi-omics datasets.
For RNA-RNA interactions, datasets generated by PARIS, RIC-seq, MARIO, KARR-seq and FANTOM-related approaches will be used to reconstruct RNA regulatory networks and uncover previously unknown, potentially functional interactions. In parallel, CLIP-seq and related datasets will be incorporated to model protein-RNA interactions and to place RNA-RNA contacts within the broader context of ribonucleoprotein regulation. These data-driven approaches will be complemented by novel computational developments designed to improve interaction prediction, prioritization and biological interpretation.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, and is familiar with complex experimental data generated from omics studies or laboratory-based research. A collaborative mindset is essential, as the role involves working closely within multidisciplinary teams of biologists, chemists, engineers, and medical professionals, with the goal of translating AI-driven insights into practical and potentially clinical applications.
The project will extend beyond classical RNA interactions to include RNA-chromatin and RNA-DNA associations. In this context, it will seek to identify RNA molecules that associate with specific genomic loci and to understand how these interactions contribute to chromatin organization and transcriptional regulation in three-dimensional space. Particular attention will be given to long non-coding RNAs, which are increasingly recognized as key regulators of genome architecture and gene expression. Where suitable datasets become available, the framework will also explore more complex mechanisms, including triplex-mediated RNA-DNA interactions, potentially stabilized or mediated by protein factors.
For more information about the research areas involved, please refer to the following links:
- RNA System Biology Research Unit: https://rnasybio.iit.it/
- Computational mOdelling of NanosCalE and bioPhysical sysTems (CONCEPT) Research Unit: https://concept.iit.it/
- Integrative Nuclear Architecture Research Unit: https://ina.iit.it/
- 3D Chromatin Conformation and RNA Genomics Research Unit: https://3d-chrom.iit.it/
- Genomic Science Research unit: https://genomics.iit.it/
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
- PhD in computational biology, machine learning, bioinformatics, physics or related fields;
- High proficiency level in programming languages (e.g., Python, R, SQL), in Linux environment, and HighPerformance Computing infrastructures, in handling workflow/workload managers and containers;
- High proficiency level in Python and relevant deep learning libraries (such as TensorFlow, PyTorch), along with experience in structural modeling tools (e.g., Vienna, Rosetta, RNAstructure) and graph neural networks or transformers applied to molecular modeling;
- A solid understanding of molecular simulations, especially in relation to RNA systems, and capable of handling largescale biological data;
- Ability to communicate scientific concepts, analytical reasoning, and scientific creativity;
- Ability to work and think independently, and collaboratively in a highly interdisciplinary environment, with a proactive attitude;
- Fluency in both spoken and written English.
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
- A yearly gross salary ranging between 35 - 45k euro;
- Private health care coverage;
- Wide range of staff discounts;
- Candidates from abroad or Italian citizens who have carried scientific research activity permanently abroad and meet specific requirements, may be entitled to a deduction from taxable income of up to 90% from 6 to 13 years.
Please submit your application using the online form and including a detailed CV, 2 reference letters.
Application’s deadline: 24-07-2026
To discover more about life at IIT, visit: https://www.iit.it/en/work-at-iit
