PhD position in Medical Science orientation Molecular Biology - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science with an orientation towards Molecular Biology and a special interest in proteostasis and cellular ageing. The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start March 1 st 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)

Work tasks

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. In this project, the student will investigate how cellular proteostasis changes with age to understand the underlying cause of age-related diseases like neurodegeneration and cancer. Further, we will study the communication and interdependency of organellar proteostasis subsystems. We combine data-driven screening in yeast with validation in higher model systems. 

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.

Qualifications

The candidate should have previous experience in wet lab techniques like molecular cloning, handling of microbial cultures and biochemical methods such as immunoblotting. Sincere enthusiasm for genetic model systems in the context of proteostasis and ageing is beneficial. Knowledge and/or basic skills in microscopy, cell culture techniques and high-throughput approaches like flow cytometry are additional merits. 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 1 March 2024 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 27 November 2023. Your application must contain the following documents written in English or Swedish:

• CV with information on education, a list of previous and current employments, and a list of publications.
• Copies of relevant degrees.
• Cover letter describing research experience and interests, motivation for applying for the position.
• Contact details of two to three references.

More about us

For more information, visit https://www.umu.se/en/department-of-molecular-biology/  and UCMR - Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (umu.se)

For questions regarding the position contact Verena Kohler, verena.kohler@umu.se.