Postdoctor in

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At the Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, at the Institute of Medicine, the main research areas are inflammation and inflammatory diseases irrespective of whether they are caused by allergies, infections or are autoimmune diseases. The aim is to investigate the underpinning mechanisms behind the inflammation. Several of our researchers also work as senior consultants at the clinics at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, which is a great advantage especially for translational research.

We are seeking an ambitious postdoc with a special interest in immunology which will join Mattias Svensson’s research group in order to explore novel roles for innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in inflammation and autoimmunity. We offer a stimulating and enjoyable environment in a translational research team with both clinical and pre-clinical researchers.

Immunology

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease that primarily affects joints of the hands, feet and knees. The pathogenesis of RA involves a complex interplay between the immune system and joint lining stromal cells (e.g. synoviocytes). Synoviocytes become activated in RA and play a key role in joint inflammation and destruction, which are main features of the disease. Therefore, inflammatory mediators that activate synoviocytes and promote their aggressive and joint-destructive behaviour are considered important drug targets in RA.

The activation of synoviocytes is mainly driven by factors produced by immune cells that accumulate and expand within the joint during RA. Although innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have been identified within the joint of patients with RA, their contribution to disease pathogenesis remains largely unknown. This project is aimed at exploring the regulation and function of ILCs in RA.

The successful candidate will work on characterizing the regulation and function of ILCs in development of rheumatoid arthritis. Experimental animal models (K/BxN and SKG) as well as unique human materials are used to study the role of ILCs in arthritis. In addition, in vitro cell culture assays with both immune cells and synoviocytes are a vital part of this project. Immunological (e.g. flow cytometry), histological (e.g. confocal microscopy) and molecular biology (e.g. qPCR) methods will be used for analysis of cells and tissues. The candidate will be encouraged and expected to conduct their research independently and to plan and execute research tasks in a timely manner. Additionally, the candidate is expected to assist in the supervision of students as well as contribute to common lab duties.

To qualify as a postdoctoral researcher the applicant should hold a PhD in a relevant subject. Since postdoctoral constitutes a qualifying appointment for junior researchers, we aim to target those who have a doctoral degree not older than 3 years from the application deadline.

We are looking for an ambitious and motivated candidate with a special interest in immunology. The candidate should have a doctoral degree within immunology and/or rheumatology and at least one publication in relevant field. Previous experience of working with experimental animal models of arthritis/autoimmunity is a merit. When assessing the applicant’s qualifications, previous experience of working with immunology (e.g. flow cytometry), molecular and histology methods as well as cell-culture will be taken into account. The candidate should be able to work both independently as well as in a group and have good communications skills (written and spoken) in English. Great emphasis will be placed on the candidate’s personal suitability for the position.

Type of employment: Fixed-term employment, 24 months Extent: 100 % Location: Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg First day of employment: Upon agreement

Mattias Svensson, Researcher, +46(0)735-133949, [email protected]

Lill Mårtensson-Bopp, Head of the Department, +46(0)31-3422492, [email protected]            

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The application should contain:
- A cover letter giving a brief description of previous research experience, and a motivation to why you are applying
- A CV including a list of publications
- Contact details of two references

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline. The selection of candidates is made on the basis of the qualifications registered in the application. 

Please enclose PhD certificate with the application.

Closing date: 2021-10-04

The University of Gothenburg promotes equal opportunities, equality and diversity.

Salary is determined on an individual basis.

Applications will be destroyed or returned (upon request) two years after the decision of employment has become final. Applications from the employed and from those who appeal the decision will not be returned.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.