Postdoc: Proteomics of cell-cell communication

We are currently looking for an ambitious, highly motivated candidate with a solid background in molecular biology, biochemistry and proteomics, to join the research group of Associate Prof. Simon Elsässer.

A fundamental property of multicellular life is the cooperation and coordination of different cell types to produce complex organismal function. Cells communicate via diffusible small molecules, secreted proteins and a range of other less-characterized mechanisms including microvesicle and exosome exchange (together termed the ‘secretome’). A systematic survey of cell-cell communication in a complex organism, such as the mouse, is challenging and hence thousands of secreted proteins are poorly defined in their function, organismal origin, target tissue and cellular receptor. As a consequence, many so-called ‘orphan’ secreted factors without known receptor and ‘orphan’ receptors without known ligand remain in the human genome/proteome.

The successful candidate will develop chemical and systems biology technologies for mechanism-independent systematic discovery of protein-based cell-to-cell communication in the mouse. Cell-type specific secretomes and their reach within the living animal will be profiled to systematically elucidate mode of action, target tissues and cognate surface receptors of diffusible messengers.

The successful candidate is expected to take a leading role in development and application of novel chemical biology and proteomics methodologies.

We are located within the modern Science for Life Laboratory (SciLifeLab) building on the Karolinska Institutet (KI) campus, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden. SciLifeLab also houses numerous state-of-the art national core facilities. We are additionally supported by the Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics. Karolinska Institutet ranks as one of the world’s leading medical universities, thanks in part to the quality of its research activities, which today account for 40 per cent of all medical research in Sweden.

Qualified to be employed as a postdoctor is one who has obtained a doctorate or has equivalent scientific competence. It is considered as an advantage if you have completed your doctoral degree within the last three years, if there are special reasons, your degree may have been completed earlier. Applicants who have not completed a doctorate at the end of the application period may also apply, provided that all requirements for a completed degree are met before the (intended) date of employment. This must be substantiated by the applicant's main supervisor, director or equivalent.

We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in proteomics, chemical biology or a related relevant field. Ideally the candidate will be able to take up the position as soon as possible or the latest January 2023. A contract is offered for one year.

Experience in the following experimental techniques are a requirement:

• molecular cloning techniques, generation of viral vectors, transfections and viral transductions techniques
• mammalian cell culture,
• analytical and preparative cellular methods such as flow cytometry and FACS
• protein biochemistry and protein purification

  Strong experience in one or more of following techniques is a great advantage:

• proteomics methodologies, such as affinity proteomics, cellular fractionation, sample preparation for bottom-up proteomics
• genetic engineering e.g. using CRISPR
• work with mice, including relevant trainings and licenses

Team-oriented motivation, supervision experience, project management skills, and technical expertise are required. Fluency in both written and spoken English is a requirement. The candidate’s communication and personal skills will be highly valued. The candidate will be expected to supervise students as well as to coordinate the research within the project team.  

A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. At KI, you get to meet researchers working with a wide range of specialisms and methods, giving you ample opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience with the various scientific fields within medicine and health. It is the crossover collaborations, which have pushed KI to where it is today, at the forefront of global research. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several benefits through our collective agreement.

Location: Solna, SciLifeLab
http://www.elsaesserlab.org
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Application

An employment application must contain the following documents in English or Swedish:

• A complete resumé, including date of the thesis defence, title of the thesis, previous academic positions, academic title, current position, academic distinctions, and committee work
• A complete list of publications
• A summary of current work (no more than one page)
• a personal letter documenting the relevant experience and motivation for interest in the position,
• contact information for at least two references

Welcome to apply at the latest September 11th 2022. 

The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system.