Umeå universitet, Teknisk-naturvetenskaplig fakultet

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.

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We are looking for a senior research engineer for projects within the areas of toxicokinetics, pharmacokinetics, or computational chemistry and a special interest in chemicals and human health. You will work in a large network of scientists in a project aimed at developing models and systems for studying combination effects of chemicals and identifying endocrine disruptors. Our specific task is to develop models to be able to predict biological effects and estimate levels and distribution of chemicals in humans and other organisms. Application deadline is May 27, 2019.

Project
The project entitled "Risk modeling of mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals relevant to human exposure, using zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo as model organism" aims to derive experimental data and models to improve our understanding of effects of combinations of chemicals. One objective is to develop refined methodology for risk assessment of complex mixtures based on the dose addition model and improved level estimate at target organ. New markers for exposure will be sought through genomics and metabolomics studies. Our part of the projects is primarily to develop so-called physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) models with the purpose of producing time-resolved distribution data of chemicals in different organisms with a focus on zebrafish as a model organism. We will also develop data-driven models (machine learning and traditional statistical methods) to predict effects of chemicals on the thyroid system in particular. Large amounts of data will be generated in the project where we are responsible for model development and interpretation. We will collaborate with other research groups in the project to interpret data and report results.

Tasks
Your task will be to develop, establish, and use models for toxicokinetics with the aim of studying the distribution of chemicals in different organisms with a focus on zebrafish and humans. You will also work towards developing of machine learning methods with chemical and biological data aiming at predicting thyroid hormone related effects. You will collaborate with other research groups in the project to report results and share data. Results should be reported at scientific meetings and scientific journals. Cooperation and supervision of other employees in the research group is also part of the work.

Qualifications
To qualify for the position a PhD degree in chemistry, toxicology, pharmacology or biology, or equivalent is required as well as documented competence in English both written and spoken. You must also be structured, independent, ambitious, enthusiastic, and have the ability to collaborate with others within the area.

Documented experience in toxicokinetic/pharmacokinetic modeling (PK/TK, PBPK/PBTK), multivariate statistical methods and software such as R, Matlab, Python, KNIME, Berkley Madonna, GastroPlus, SimCyp, WinNonlin, and NONMEM is meriting. Postdoctoral experience is a merit.

Application
The application must contain a cover letter stating why you are interested in the position, a resume (CV), list of scientific publications, doctoral degree certificate, other relevant certificates and grades, and name and contact information for at least two reference persons.

You apply through our e-recruitment system. Log in and apply via the button at the bottom of the page. The deadline for applications is May 27, 2019.

Terms of employment
The position is permanent on a full-time basis with start as soon as possible. A probationary period may be applied.

Other information
Further information can be obtained from Professor Patrik Andersson, phone: +4690-786 5266, e-mail: patrik.andersson@umu.se.

The Department of Chemistry is one of the largest departments within the Faculty of Science and Technology with approximately 200 employees, of which approximately 40 graduate students, and a strong and expanding research. The Department has three major research areas: Biological Chemistry, Environmental and Biogeochemistry, and Technical Chemistry. We are also a strong partner in the KBC, Chemical-Biological Center.

Type of employment Permanent position
Contract type Full time
First day of employment As soon as possible
Salary Monthly salary
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100%
City Umeå
County Västerbottens län
Country Sweden
Reference number AN 2.2.1-686-19
Union representative
  • SACO, 090-786 53 65
  • SEKO, 090-786 52 96
  • ST, 090-786 54 31
Published 26.Apr.2019
Last application date 27.May.2019 11:59 PM CEST

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