Staff scientist in infection and cancer biology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University, Sweden, invites applicants for a position as Staff Scientist in infection and cancer biology, focused on studying the microenvironment modulation by bacterial genotoxin on NA damage response, senescence, inflammation and cancer. The position is temporary for 12 months on full time and expected to start as soon as possible according to agreement. 

Project description

The research team studies the effect of acute and chronic infection/intoxication in vitro and in vivo with bacteria expressing genotoxins, which cause DNA damage in mammalian cells.

The project aims at characterizing the effects of the genotoxins on the tissue architecture (e. g. intestinal tract, liver and spleen), the host response (special focus on the immune response), induction of DNA damage and genomic instability caused by short term and long-term infections/intoxication in organoids and 3D models as well as in ex vivo and in vivo models.

Work tasks

In vivo models:

• mice infection, mainly but not exclusively via gavage
• intraperitoneal injections
• necropsy
• paraffine tissue embedding
• tissue cutting

Techniques:

• In situ multiplex immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry and transcritptomics
• tissue culture and development of 3D culture models
• infection with ex vivo primary material
• purification of peripheral blood mononuclear cells
• cell linage isolation and differentiation
• bacterial infection of the in vitro and ex vivo models

Qualifications

We seek an highly motivated candidate with a Ph.D. degree that spans the topics of Cancer biology, Immunology, Molecular and Cell Biology, with documented experience in studies of bacteria and cancer, with focus on host-microbe response. You should have hands-on experience with infection of mouse models. You should have a relevant research output, as evidenced by first authorship. You should have experience with mouse models and have a FELASA B certificate.

Previous knowledge in the field on colonic homeostasis and relation to colorectal cancer (CRC) development, and excellent experience with mouse models of CRC, performing,  analysing multiplex spatial in situ staining (protein and RNA), experience with developing mammalian in vitro 3D organotypic and ex vivo mucosal models, very good knowledge in co-culture systems of eukaryotic cells and gut microbiota, experience in supervising students, knowledge in the field of immunology and DNA damage response, ability to write independently grant application is required. The candidate should show excellent capacity to develop independently the assigned project(s), have good ability to be a team-player, interact co-operatively with senior and junior colleagues, sharing laboratory and research resources, and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

The candidate must be fluent in spoken and written English. Since the project will be of collaborative nature, the candidate are expected to function in a team and therefore have a good ability to co-operate. Excellent communication skills are required for interacting effectively with colleagues and peers, including colleagues from complementary research fields.

Pedagogic courses and teaching experience in the field of animal physiology will be considered as merit.

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 English (preferably) or Swedish. The application should be made via our e-recruitment system Varbi and must be received latest 30 September 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 previous employments.
• A list with your publications.
• A copy of the PhD certificate and other relevant degree certificates.
• A copy of the FELASA B certificate.
• Other relevant documentation you wish to include in support of your application.

If there are questions, please contact:

Teresa Frisan
Professor Cellular and Molecular Biology
Dept Molecular Biology

teresa.frisan@umu.se 

We welcome your application!