Looking for candidates to apply to the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026

The research group led by Dr. Fabiana Piscitelli at the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry (CNR, Italy) focuses on the application of advanced mass spectrometry to investigate complex biological systems. The laboratory has strong expertise in LC-MS/MS, targeted and untargeted lipidomics, and spatial metabolomics.

Research activities are centered on understanding molecular mechanisms underlying human health and disease, with particular emphasis on the endocannabinoidome, gut–brain axis, and neurodegenerative disorders. The group integrates analytical chemistry, systems biology, and biomedical approaches to characterize lipid signaling pathways and their interaction with microbiome-derived metabolites.

Current research lines include:

• quantitative and spatial profiling of bioactive lipids

• development and validation of LC-MS methodologies

• investigation of microbiome–host interactions

• identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets in neurodegeneration

The laboratory is embedded in a highly interdisciplinary and international environment, with access to state-of-the-art analytical platforms and collaborations with leading research infrastructures.

Who can apply?

Researchers of any nationality who:

• Have completed a PhD or will complete it by the call deadline (September 2026)

• Have a maximum of 8 years full-time equivalent research experience

• Comply with MSCA mobility rules (not having resided or carried out their main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the deadline)

Applicants who applied to the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 call and received a score below 80% are not eligible.

How to apply?

Motivated candidates are invited to send an expression of interest to: fabiana.piscitelli@cnr.it by 30 April 2026

The application should include:

• CV (max 5 pages)

• Cover letter outlining research background and potential synergy with the group’s research

 Estimated timetable

• Expression of interest deadline: 30 April 2026

• Candidate selection: May 2026

• MSCA submission deadline: September 2026

Selected candidates will receive full support in the preparation of a competitive MSCA proposal.