Postdoctoral position in pupillary dynamics

This appointment is a part of a strategic initiative from the Faculty of Medicine and aims to stimulate innovative and interdisciplinary research. The appointment is a full-time, fixed-term position for two years and aims to study the pupillary light reflex (PLR) in relation to intraocular pressure (IOP) and open angle glaucoma. The application deadline is 11 march 2022.

The postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Prof. Lena Gunhaga at Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM) at the University of Umeå, Sweden, in collaboration with Associated Professors Berit Byström and Gauti Johannesson at the Eye clinic, Umeå University Hospital. 

In the mammalian eye, the iris sphincter muscle regulates the size of the pupil, which in turn controls the influx of light to the retina. Traditionally, the pupillary light reflex (PLR) has been considered a brain-mediated reflex. More recent data from animal studies, show that the iris can intrinsically respond to light to regulate the PLR independent on signals from the brain. Our recent publication has presented new mechanisms regulating among others synchronized pupil dilation and contraction in mouse (Sghari et al., 2020), but more details remain to be defined. Light-regulated molecular mechanisms associated with intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuation and/or open-angle glaucoma onset and progression are also of interest to understand. Thus, the main focus of this project is to understand molecular mechanisms that control light dependent regulation of the PLR and IOP.

The applicant will perform functional assessments how various light quality will affect the PLR and IOP in humans, with the possibility to also examine wild type and specific knock-out mouse lines. The applicant will be responsible for human eye examinations, collecting blood samples and contacts with the medical Biobank. Human PLR recordings and related evaluations will be done in collaboration with senior researchers. If relevant, the applicant will also perform mouse genotyping and eye-tissue cultures. Methods will include; human eye examinations (IOP, retinal thickness, eye surface), in vivo and in vitro PLR recordings in humans and mouse, design and evaluate PLR recordings, mouse genetic analysis, eye dissections and tissue culture. The study also includes statistical and image analyses, as well as writing scientific manuscripts.

A person who has been awarded a doctorate or a foreign qualification deemed to be the equivalent of a doctorate in the subject of ophthalmology, physiology, molecular- or developmental- biology, or similar is eligible for appointment as postdoctoral researcher. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time at which the appointment decision is made. Both clinical and non-clinical PhD’s within these research fields will be taken into consideration.

A thorough theoretical and practical knowledge regarding the structure and biology of the eye from cell to tissue level is a prerequisite. The applicant should be proficient in written and spoken English, and have good computer skills (Word, Photoshop, Excel or similar).

Since appointment as a postdoctoral researcher is a career-development position for junior researchers, we are primarily interested in applicants who completed their doctoral degree no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, an applicant who has completed their degree earlier than that may be considered. Special reasons include absence due to illness, parental leave, clinical practice, appointments of trust for a trade union organisation or other similar circumstances, and for relevant duties/assignments within the subject area.

Knowledge within the fields of ion signalling and/or photoreceptors is an advantage. Practical experience with studies of the eye, either clinically or using mouse as a model system, is also an advantage. Knowledge in Swedish is an advantage, but not a requirement. Of importance is also the candidate’s independence, ability to work in a team, as well as their organizational and problem-solving skills.

The appointment is a full-time, fixed-term position for two years in accordance with the terms of contract for fixed-term employment as a postdoctoral researcher from 1 February 2022.
Starting date: As soon as possible in agreement.

More information about the research group of Prof. Lena Gunhaga:
https://www.umu.se/en/research/groups/lena-gunhaga/
and about Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM):
https://www.umu.se/en/umea-centre-for-molecular-medicine/

The application must include:

• A brief description of your research interests and a statement describing why you are interested in the position. (Max 1 page)
• CV
• Complete list of publications
• Degree certificate from doctoral studies and other relevant degrees
• Contact details of two reference persons with stated professional relationship with the applicant.

The application must be written in Swedish or English. The application must be submitted via Umeå University’s e-recruitment system Varbi and must be received latest 11th of March 2022.

We look forward to receiving your application.