Staff scientist in Microbial Immunology

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. 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 Molecular Biology at Umeå University, Sweden, invites applicants for a position as Staff Scientist in Microbial Immunology. The position is full-time for 11 months and expected to start June 1st 2025, or according to agreement. Application deadline is 10 April, 2025.

With the aim to better understand the complex relationship between gut microbiota and host, this research project aims to characterize how specific gut bacteria interact with crucial aspects of intestinal mucosal immunolgy, namely the mucus layer and antimicrobial peptides.
The project will be carried out in the Schröder lab, located in the Department of Molecular Biology, which is part of the Laboratory of Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) and Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR). The position will include a variety of biochemical and molecular biology approaches, anaerobic bacterial culturing and advanced mucus function measurements.

The work responsibilities for the project include:
·         Ex vivo mucus function measurements from mice and human intestinal tissue.
·         Use and optimize confocal microscopy approaches to image mucosal barrier function.
·         Plan, execute and analyse mouse experiments.
·         Be responsible for the maintenance of the mouse colony.
·         Perform antimicrobial activity assays.
·         Use microbial culturing techniques under low-oxygen environments (anaerobic chamber).
·         Utilize computational methods (e.g. Qiime2) to evaluate microbial composition.

We seek highly motivated candidates with a Ph.D. in biochemistry, or related discipline, with documented experience in studies of intestinal microbiology and/or mucosal barrier function. You should have hands-on experience with the methods stated under work responsibilities, particularly the ex vivo mucus function measurements, mouse experiments and the responsibility for mouse colonies. You should have a strong relevant research output, as evidenced by first authorship, or publications presenting ground-breaking new research findings within intestinal microbiology.

Candidates must be fluent in spoken and written English. Since the project will be of collaborative nature, candidates are expected to function in a team and therefore have a good ability to co-operate. Excellent communication skills are required for interacting effectively with colleagues and peers, including colleagues from complementary research fields. Good initiative ability and experience in applying for research funding is a requirement.  Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability.

Merit is given if the candidate has conducted postdoctoral studies at a university other than where the doctoral studies were carried out.

As an employee with us, you contribute to fostering an inclusive culture and a positive work
environment. This involves communicating effectively across differences, demonstrating a collaborative spirit and the ability to work well with others. You maintain openness and a welcoming attitude, showing respect, compassion, and empathy. You engage with and support colleagues from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and promote a healthy work-life balance for both yourself and others.

The application must include: 

1.       A personal cover letter clearly describing your research experience, motivation and how your expertise matches the requirements (max. 1 page).

2.       A curriculum vitae that documents academic education and past and previous employments. (max 2 pages).

3.       A list with your publications. 

4.       A copy of the PhD certificate and other relevant degree certificates. 

5.       Names and contact details with e-mail addresses of two or three academic references. 

6.       Other relevant documentation you wish to include in support of your application. 

The application must be  made via our e-recruitment system Varbi, and written in Swedish or English. It must be received latest 10 April 2025.  

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

More information about the group's research can be found on our website (www.mucubacter.org) .

For information about the position, please contact Björn Schröder, bjorn.schroder@umu.se   

We welcome your application!