Research

The Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics of the Polish Academy of Sciences is one of the leading research institutes in Poland, and is also recognized in the world. We conduct basic research to answer key questions about the living world. Using our experience, knowledge and skills, we build future research and development staff by training young post-docs and PhD students.

Our research encompasses biological and chemical sciences. More than 30 independent laboratories conduct research on viruses, bacteria, lower fungi, plants, mammalian cells and the basis of human diseases. The work of scientists at IBB PAS is supported by several modern research facility units and central services.

We apply state-of-the-art research methodology, including high-throughput methods based on platforms available in our Institute (NGS; proteomics; genomic loss-of-function screens; chemical screens). The results of our research find application in medicine, agriculture and industry; and many have been granted patent protection. In particular, in our Institute we:

  • study evolutionary changes in respect to structural, functional and comparative genomics
  • perform metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses to examine environmental microbiomes and identify microorganisms of biotechnological importance
  • apply system biology and investigate the Antarctic ecosystem
  • discover transcriptional, translational and epigenetic mechanisms of the regulation of gene expression
  • study RNA metabolism, RNA modification and cellular functions, including non-coding RNAs
  • investigate the mechanisms of genome replication and stability
  • determine the structure and function of proteins and the role of their post-translational modifications
  • examine protein-ligand interactions to introduce a rational methodology for inhibitor and drug design
  • study the role of metals in biological processes and synthesize new compounds with potential application
  • analyze the molecular basis of plant responses to pathogens and abiotic stress
  • investigate the biosynthesis and function of metabolites important for cellular activity
  • study processes that play key roles in the development of human diseases, including cancer, rare genetic diseases, cystic fibrosis or COVID-19. We investigate the mechanisms of bacterial virulence and drug resistance. We look for and analyze bacteriophages with therapeutic potential.