Post-Doc Positions for Deciphering Principles & Mechanisms of the Zygotene Cilium: A Newly Identified Cilium in Developing Oocytes

About our Campus: The Ein Kerem campus of the Hebrew University, established in 1960, is in southwestern Jerusalem. This campus hosts the Faculty of Medicine and the School of Dentistry, located next to Hadassah Hospital, one of the city’s main medical centers. It also is also home to other healthcare programs, including the School of Pharmacology, the School of Nursing, the School of Occupational Therapy, and the School of Public Health. The Ein Kerem campus is a central hub for medical and health-related education and research at the University.

About Our Department: ​ The Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research focuses on uncovering the fundamental mechanisms of cellular growth, differentiation, and morphogenesis. Faculty members apply a wide array of tools including genetics, cell biology, microscopy, and molecular analysis to explore development in health and disease, with strong emphasis on cancer biology, regeneration, reproduction, and early embryonic development. The Department promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across life sciences and medicine.

About Our Research: The Elkouby Lab [https://www.yanivelkoubylab.com/]  studies how eggs are produced, focusing on early oogenesis, from the germline stem cell to the primary follicle. This ERC-funded project investigates the newly discovered zygotene cilium—a previously unrecognized cilium essential for meiotic chromosomal pairing and germ cell morphogenesis. The Lab has established its presence in both zebrafish and mice, revealing its vital role in ovary development and fertility. The position offers a unique opportunity to explore ciliary mechanics, developmental signaling, and reproductive biology using cutting-edge live imaging, genetic manipulation, and deep-learning image analysis. The research also investigates how findings translate to understanding human ciliopathic proteins.

Job Description: We are seeking two highly motivated and talented post-doctoral researchers to join our international team. The postdocs will participate in a team effort aimed at deciphering the mechanical, functional, and regulatory components of the zygotene cilium. Responsibilities include performing advanced imaging, genetic manipulation in zebrafish, and molecular analyses. Opportunities exist for involvement in single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics, and developmental modeling. The Elkouby Lab provides a collaborative environment, access to state-of-the-art microscopy, and a long-term ovary culture system for live imaging.

About Your Supervisor: Prof. Yaniv Elkouby leads the Elkouby Lab at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His research focuses on novel cellular and developmental mechanisms in early oogenesis. He has pioneered whole-ovary live imaging approaches, integrating quantitative microscopy, deep learning, and functional manipulation techniques. Prof. Elkouby's work has led to major breakthroughs in the understanding of oocyte development, including the discovery of the zygotene cilium and symmetry-breaking mechanisms in oogenesis. He directs a talented team of international researchers, and his lab is equipped with cutting-edge tools and imaging facilities.

Funding:

Annual salary of $38,000–42,000 (NIS equivalent), funded by the European Research Council (ERC).

Your Profile (To excel in this role, we seek candidates with):

• A PhD in life sciences (cell/developmental biology or related fields) 
• Strong background in developmental biology 
• Expertise in zebrafish research, genetics, and transgenesis 
• Excellent communication skills in English

Advantages:
• Molecular biology skills; microscopy and imaging experience is an advantage 
• Experience in single-cell transcriptomics or proteomics is a plus 

Embracing Diversity: At Hebrew University we believe that diversity inspires creativity, fosters curiosity, and enriches our ecosystem through academic collaboration and cultural exchange. We consider every member of our community an integral part, irrespective of their religion, gender, or ethnic origin.

The University is home to nearly 25,000 students across our 6 campuses, including ~2,500 international students per year representing 90+ countries. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to engage with your peers here on equal ground, in an environment that promotes equity and inclusion, and celebrates the contribution of its talented members. 

Application:  Please submit the following documentation as three separate PDF files: 

• Letter of motivation

• CV (including a list of publications)

• Copy of your original academic degree(s)

Application Deadline: See details below.

About Hebrew University: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI) is one of the world's leading research institutions, consistently ranked as a global top 100 university. Established by luminaries such as Albert Einstein, the University is at the forefront of groundbreaking research, entrepreneurship, and innovation across various domains, including brain sciences, medicine, biomedicine, life sciences, mathematics, agriculture, and more. Our 6 campuses house 100+ research centers, with ~4,000 research projects underway year-round. 

About Jerusalem: Hebrew University is an integral part of Jerusalem, Israel’s capital and one of the most fascinating, diverse cities on earth. Thousands of students from across the globe live in Jerusalem, immersing themselves in its vibrant cultural and culinary scenes, while marveling at the juxtaposition of its 3,000-year-old history and cutting-edge modernity. Students make the most of their spare time by enjoying Jerusalem’s myriad attractions, from restaurants, cafes and pubs, to dance clubs, museums, theaters, and year-round festivals.