Project Assistant

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 41,500 students and about 4,600 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

The Department of Medical and Translational Biology at the Faculty of Medicine is now seeking a project assistant for a research project related to Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Touch in Vertebrate Skin. The position is temporary for 6 months.

Project Description

Every animal experiences the world in its own way, shaped by the sensory systems it uses to detect and interpret the environment. Nikolaev lab investigates how vertebrates sense and process environmental signals across scales, from molecules and ion channels to cells and specialized sensory endings. Using comparative, molecular, morphological and functional approaches, we explore how sensory systems are built, how they adapt, and how they vary across species especially in non-standard model organisms. We are inspired by the diversity found in nature and seek to uncover basic mechanisms of how nervous systems function.

Se more details: www.nikolaevlab.com

Work Duties

The project assistant will take part in experiments aimed at understanding how sensory neurons and supporting cells detect mechanical stimuli. Experimental work will include patch-clamp recordings, immunostaining, imaging, and tissue preparation in non-standard animal models. The position may serve as useful preparation for those who later choose to pursue a PhD.

Qualifications

It is a requirement that you have:

• MS degree or equivalent in neuroscience, physiology, biophysics or related discipline.
• Good communication skills in English, both spoken and written.
• Interest in basic science, e.g. neurobiology, physiology, or regeneration.
• We value creativity, curiosity, enthusiasm, and persistence in someone looking to build a long-term research career.

Personal Qualities:

• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.

Meritorious:

Strong emphasis will be placed on motivation. Additional experience in one or more of the following areas is advantageous:

• Patch-clamp electrophysiology and tissue culture.
• Molecular biology and immunohistochemistry.
• Image analysis, data visualization, or programming.

The position is full-time and limited to 6 months.

Application

Your application should be written in Swedish or English and submitted via the e-recruitment system Varbi no later than 2026-04-12.

The application must include:

• A short cover letter (approximately one A4 page) describing the applicant’s research experience, research interests, and suitability for the project.
• A CV (Curriculum Vitae) including degrees, technical expertise, employment history, and names and contact information for 1 referens.
• Other documents the applicant wishes to include.

Contact Information:

Information about the position is provided by Yury Nikolaev
Email: [email protected]
Department of Medical and Translational Biology
Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå

We look forward to receiving your application!