Staff scientist in Microbiology and Molecular Pathology

The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University welcomes applications for a permanent position as Staff Scientist in Molecular Pathology. The position is full-time, with a starting date of 1 January or as agreed. The application deadline is 16 December, 2025.

Description of the project   

This project aims to develop a high-throughput experimental framework to investigate the genetic and epigenetic effects of nanoplastic particles (NPs) using bacterial mutagenesis systems as an initial model. By adapting established assays, the project explores how different NP chemistries induce specific genetic alterations and the mechanisms involved. As a next step, the candidate will establish a complementary eukaryotic model system to validate the findings from the bacterial assays and provide a proof of concept for NP-induced mutational and epigenetic effects in higher organisms. A translational objective is to compare NP-associated mutation and methylation patterns with signatures from early-onset tumor genome databases, thereby linking environmental NP exposure to mechanisms relevant for human disease and cancer development.

Work responsibilities  

The candidate will lead a multidisciplinary research program investigating the genotoxic and epigenetic effects of NPs. Responsibilities include developing mutagenesis assays, screening diverse NP polymers for mutagenic potential, and characterizing identified effects using biophysical techniques such as circular dichroism (CD) and infrared spectroscopy, alongside molecular, cellular, and pathological approaches. The candidate will integrate biophysical and molecular insights into NP-DNA interactions and validate key findings in eukaryotic systems, including cancer cell lines and clinical cohorts. They will also develop screening methods to assess the impact of NPs on cancer-associated microbiota as potential indirect mediators of mutagenic activity. The role requires high level of independence, expertise in microbiology , NP research and molecular pathology, as well as the ability to collaborate across disciplines. The candidate will work closely with leading experts in cancer biology, physics, chemistry, and environmental sciences, and will engage in active collaborations with research groups worldwide. Supervision of students and junior colleagues is also expected within an interdisciplinary environment bridging molecular pathology, biophysics, and environmental health.

Qualifications 

We seek highly motivated candidates with a Ph.D. in molecular biology, or related discipline, with documented experience in studies of bacterial pathogenesis, physiology and genetics. You should have hands-on experience with techniques in molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics and microbiology and NP research. You should have a strong relevant research output, as evidenced by first authorship, or publications presenting ground-breaking new research findings within molecular pathology and microbiology fields.   

Candidates must be fluent in spoken and written English. Since the project will be of collaborative nature, candidates 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. Good initiative ability and experience in applying for research funding is a requirement.   

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 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. 
•  Other relevant documentation you wish to include in support of your application.  
    

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

For additional information about the position, please contact Professor Lukas Kenner, lukas.kenner@umu.se

More about us

You can find more information about us at Department of Molecular Biology

We welcome your application!