Postdoctoral position in regenerative plastic surgery

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 diagnostics and intervention is looking for a postdoctoral position in regenerative plastic surgery.

Description of the project and work responsibilities

The project involves basic science and clinical research samples, with particular focus on the role of autologous fat in regenerative plastic surgery and investigation of the tumor microenvironment using in-vitro systems. Ongoing projects in which the successful applicant will participate include: i) investigating whether reconstruction with autologous fat transplantation increases the risk of breast cancer in BRCA-carriers, ii) exploring the role of fibroblasts in breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma and iii) exploring the role of autologous fat and muscle cells in breast reconstruction with autologous tissue transfer.

The position involves working in parallel with several different cell types, which requires the ability to work in a structured and methodical manner

Eligibility

A person who has been awarded a doctorate in a subject relevant to the position, or a foreign qualification deemed to be the equivalent of a doctorate 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.

The applicant must have solid knowledge of cell and molecular biology techniques used to study cellular proliferation and invasion, including IHC, RT-qPCR, and Western blot. Experience in developing three-dimensional in vitro models and working with associated techniques, such as bioprinting, is considered an asset.

To be eligible for the position, the applicant must be able to analyze and interpret data, have excellent oral and written communication skills in English, and be able to communicate research findings clearly. The ability to work independently as well as in a team is also required.

Additional useful qualifications

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.

Additional useful qualifications

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.

Experience in developing three-dimensional in vitro models and working with associated techniques, such as bioprinting, is considered an asset.

More information about the position

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.

Application

The application must include:

• A brief description of your research interests and a statement describing why you are interested in the position.
• CV
• List of publications
• Degree certificate from doctoral studies and other relevant degrees
• Contact details of two reference persons

The application must be written in Swedish or English. The application must be made via our e-recruitment system Varbi and must be received latest 24th February 2026.

We look forward to receiving your application!