PhD position in Medical Science with orientation towards Molecular Biology - ,

We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science with an orientation towards Molecular Biology and a special interest in molecular tumor biology. The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start immediately or as agreed. The PhD student will participate in activities provided by the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), and the Umeå Centrum for Microbial Research (UCMR), thus providing interaction with researchers from different research fields and access to various scientific and technical expertise. More information about the doctoral education program at the Faculty of Medicine can be found at 

Doctoral Studies at the Faculty of Medicine - Handbook (umu.se)

Background and description of tasks

In this project the student will address how different aspects of RNA-splicing and hypoxia affect neuroblastoma. In addition, we will also investigate whether these aspects represent selective vulnerabilities in neuroblastoma cells which can serve as suitable therapeutic targets. A person who is employed as a PhD student shall primarily devote his-/or herself to his/her own education. The project and research environment will give the dedicated student the opportunity to train as a first-class researcher.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University Master degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 credit points, of which at least 60 credit points should be at second-cycle level. Required is a minimum of 30 credits in the main field of chemistry, including at least 7.5 credits biochemistry; 45 credits in the major areas of biology or molecular biology with at least 7.5 credits in genetics and 22,5 credits in the fields of microbiology, physiology and cell-and molecular biology. Additionally, at least 45 credits from second cycle studies in cell- and molecular biology including an independent work of at least 15 credits is required. 

You need to be fluent in spoken and written English, which will be evaluated by the postgraduate studies board of the department.

Qualifications

It is considered a merit if the applicant has previous experience of standard molecular and cell biology methods, for example tissue culture, protein analysis (western blot), gene expression analysis (sequencing and PCR) and confocal microscopy.  It is a major merit if applicant has performed longer (> 6months) pediatric cancer projects. You should be highly motivated and able to work productively in a team as well as independently. Excellent communication skills for interacting effectively with senior colleagues and peers are required. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability.

Basis of assessment

The evaluation of the ability and potential to perform well is based primarily on:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to doctoral studies within the research area, 

2. The ability to formulate and solve scientific questions. 

3. Skills in written and oral communication in English. 

4. Other experience relevant to doctoral studies, such as professional experience.

Good collaborative skills, drive and independent work ability are considered as positive merits.

A selection will be made among qualified applicants on the basis of their qualifications and their ability to benefit from studies at the doctoral level. After the selection of the suitable candidate, the process for the admission to doctoral studies will commence. An admission decision will be taken by the faculty’s director of studies.

About the employment

The position is intendent to result in a doctoral degree and is limited to four years full time. If part-time teaching (max. 20%) can be offered, the employment period can be extended.

Start date 01-10-2023 or as agreed.

Wage placement takes place according to the established salary ladder for doctoral student employment.

According to the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 12, Section 2), the decision on employment cannot be appealed.

How to apply

You apply through our recruitment system at the latest 18th of July 2023. Your application must contain the following documents written in English or Swedish:

·         A CV with information on education, a list of previous and current employments, and a list   of publications.

·         Copies of relevant degrees

·         A cover letter describing research experience and interests, motivation for applying for the position 

·         Contact details of two to three references.

Welcome with your application!

More about us

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

For questions regarding the position please contact johan.holmberg02@umu.se