Staff scientist in bacterial infections and epitranscriptome

The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University, Sweden, invites applicants for a position as Staff Scientist in a project aimed at studying the role of epitranscriptomics in bacterial infection.

The position is temporary for 12 months on full time and is expected to start in September 2025 or according to agreement. 

Project description and work tasks

The research team investigates the impact of RNA modification, specifically N6-methyladenosine (m6a), on the cellular invasion and intracellular replication of genotoxic-producing toxin bacteria, and how changes in the epitranscriptome landscape are associated with alterations in the toxin carcinogenic potential.

The work entails:

• Human cell infection with intracellular or extracellular bacteria.
• Analysis of DNA damage markers, levels of m6A machinery (writers, erasers and readers), and host cell response in 2D and 3D culture models by biochemical and imaging techniques.
• Application of molecular biology-based technique: RNA extraction, cloning of relevant shRNA-expressing vectors.
• Preparation of material for RNAseq and Mass Spectrometry.
• Immunoprecipitation of modified RNA transcripts.

Qualifications

We seek highly motivated candidates with a Ph.D. in molecular biology or equivalent. The candidate should have hands-on experience in the field of non-coding RNA and RNA modifications.

Strong proficiency with the following techniques and skills is required:

Molecular biology techniques

• DNA, RNA, mRNA & protein extractions.
• RNA Immunoprecipitation.
• Protein biochemistry.

Cell models:

• Experience and familiarity with the infection models with intracellular and extracellular bacteria.
• Transfection/electroporation of plasmids & siRNAs/antisense oligonucleotide gapmers.
• Production of lentiviral stocks for transduction and cellular transduction.
• In situ multiplex immunofluorescence and RNAscope.

You should have a relevant research output, as evidenced by first authorship or publications presenting new research findings in the field of non-coding RNA.

Candidates must be fluent in spoken and written English. Since the project will be of a collaborative nature, candidates are expected to function in a team and therefore have a good ability to cooperate. Excellent communication skills are required for interacting effectively with colleagues and peers, including colleagues from complementary research fields. Good initiative, ability and experience in applying for research funding are requirements.

Merit is given if the candidate has conducted postdoctoral studies at a university other than where the doctoral studies were carried out.

As an employee with us, you contribute to fostering an inclusive culture and a positive work
environment. This involves communicating effectively across differences, demonstrating a collaborative spirit and the ability to work well with others. You maintain openness and a welcoming attitude, showing respect, compassion, and empathy. You engage with and support colleagues from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and promote a healthy work-life balance for both yourself and others.

Application

The application must be written in Swedish or English (preferably). The application must be made via our e-recruitment system Varbi and must be received latest 16 Juni, 2025.  

The application must include: 

• A personal cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position, how you can contribute to the project and in which direction you may want to develop it (no more than 2 A4 pages). 
• A curriculum vitae that documents academic education and past and present employment.
• A list of your publications. 
• A copy of the PhD certificate and other relevant degree certificates. 
• Other relevant documentation you wish to include in support of your application. 

If there are questions, please contact:

Teresa Frisan
Professor of Cellular and Molecular Biology
Dept Molecular Biology
teresa.frisan@umu.se

We welcome your application!