PhD position in Molecular Biology

Updated: about 1 year ago
Deadline: The position may have been removed or expired!

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37 000 students and about 4 700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. And 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 what it is all about. But also about delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. This is simply where the future is built.


We are looking for a PhD student in Molecular Biology and a special interest in leukocyte adhesion. The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start immediately or as agreed.

The PhD student will participate in activities provided by the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), and the Umeå Centrum for Microbial Research (UCMR), thus providing interaction with researchers from different research fields and access to various scientific and technical expertise. 


Background and description of tasks

The PhD student will investigate how integrins are regulated and re-used by intracellular transport in leukocyte adhesion. These integrins are vital for the body to be able to fight infections, as nonfunctional integrins, as in the immunodeficiency disease LADIII, lead to mortality early in life. A person who is employed as a PhD student shall primarily devote his-/or herself to his/her own education. The project and research environment will give the dedicated student the opportunity to train as a first-class researcher.


Qualifications

Applicants must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University Master degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 credit points, of which at least 60 credit points should be at second-cycle level. Required is a minimum of 30 credits in the main field of chemistry, including at least 7.5 credits biochemistry; 45 credits in the major areas of biology or molecular biology with at least 7.5 credits in genetics and 22,5 credits in the fields of microbiology, physiology and cell-and molecular biology. Additionally, at least 45 credits from second cycle studies in cell- and molecular biology including an independent work of at least 15 credits is required. You need to be fluent in spoken and written English, which will be evaluated by the postgraduate studies board of the department.

Meriting for the position is documented knowledge and experience in immunology, as well as experience from molecular cloning, flow cytometer, leukocyte purification, cell culture of human leukocytes and cell lines, lipid bilayers analyses and biochemical methods such as western blot and co-immunoprecipitations. You should be highly motivated and able to work productively in a team as well as independently. Excellent communication skills for interacting effectively with senior colleagues and peers are required. Good collaborative skills, drive and independent work ability are considered as merits. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability.

A selection will be made among qualified applicants on the basis of their qualifications and their ability to benefit from studies at the doctoral level. The evaluation is based primarily on:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to doctoral studies within the research area, 

2. The ability to formulate and solve scientific questions. 

3. Skills in written and oral communication in English. 

4. Other experience relevant to doctoral studies, such as professional experience.

After the selection of the suitable candidate, the process for the admission to doctoral studies will commence. An admission decision will be taken by the prefect.


About the employment

The position is intendent to result in a doctoral degree and is limited to four years full time. If part-time teaching (max. 20%) can be offered, the employment period can be extended.

Start date April 2023 or by agreement.

Wage placement takes place according to the established salary ladder for doctoral student employment. According to the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 12, Section 2), the decision on employment cannot be appealed.


How to apply

You apply through our recruitment system at the latest 06-02-2023. Your application must contain the following documents written in English or Swedish:

  • A CV with information on education, a list of previous and current employments, and a list of publications.
  • Copies of relevant degrees
  • A cover letter describing research experience and interests, motivation for applying for the position
  • Contact details of two to three references.

Union information is available from SACO, +46-(0)90-786 53 65, SEKO, +46-(0)90-786 52 96 and ST, +46-(0)90-786 54 31.

For questions regarding the position contact Lena Svensson, [email protected]

We welcome your application!


More about us

You can find more information at www.umu.se/en/department-of-molecular-biology/ and www.ucmr.umu.se



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