Project assistant, 6 months, at The Department of Molecular Biology

Umeå University, Medicinska fakulteten

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.

Are you interested in learning more? Read about Umeå university as a workplace

The Faculty of Medicine, which consists of 13 departments, is responsible for biomedical research and courses in the field of nursing and health care and has an extensive research and graduate education in more than 80 subjects.

We are looking for a project assistant to work at The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University. It is a tempory position for six months with start 1 of August 2019 or as agreed. Last day to apply is 16 May 2019.

Project description and work tasks

The project will involve the use of a combination of in-vivo assays, biochemistry and cryo-electron microscopy to study a macromolecular complex from a specialized pathogenic organism. The goal is to provide a molecular basis of a key mechanisms in the infection process and uncover unique structural determinants that can serve as novel targets for antibiotics.

The selected candidate will design and perform experiments, analyze results and present findings under supervision. This is a pilot study with the aim of investigating the potential of the project for a PhD thesis.

Qualifications

The candidate should have a Masters exam (MSc) in Structural Biology and experience in molecular biology such as primer design, PCR, cloning. Experience in protein overexpression in E. coli or insect cells and protein purification. Experience with cryo-electron microscopy grid preparation, screening and data collection is required and knowledge about data processing a merit. Good communication skills with senior colleagues and peers and the ability to interact effectively and work productively in a team are required. Fluency in spoken and written English is required.

Other qualifications of merit

Prior experience in expression, purification and structural characterization of macromolecular complexes is a strong merit.

Application

You apply through our e-recruitment system at the latest 16 May 2019. Your application must contain the following documents written in English:

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

More about us

You can find more information about The Department of Molecular Biology at www.mims.umu.se and www.umu.se/en/department-of-molecular-biology.

Welcome with your application!