PhD position in plant science with a focus on small proteins in tomato flower development

The Department of Plant Physiology (Umeå University, Umeå Plant Science Centre, Sweden) invites applicants for PhD positions in plant science. The expected starting date is May 1st, 2026 or according to agreement. 

Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC) is one of the strongest research environments for basic plant research in Europe. Research at UPSC covers a wide range of disciplines in plant biology including ecology, computational biology, genetics, physiology, biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology (see www.upsc.se). A PhD student position is open at the Department of Plant Physiology, which is part of Umeå Plant Science Centre. Application deadline is March 31, 2026.

Project description

This doctoral project investigates the molecular mechanisms that govern plant development, with a particular focus on symmetry breaking processes in tomato flowers. Symmetry breaking is a fundamental biological phenomenon in which initially symmetrical structures transform into complex and specialized forms. This process is essential for the development of multicellular organisms and plays a key role in shaping the remarkable diversity observed across plant and animal species. The project combines experimental and computational approaches, making use of advanced techniques such as genomics, proteomics, genome editing and protein engineering. A central aim will be to identify and characterize the molecular regulators, including microproteins, that control flower development. The PhD student will work at the interface of live cell imaging, mathematical modelling, and functional genomics, receiving experimentally testable predictions generated by state-of-the-art predictive models. These predictions will be rigorously validated using advanced molecular tools and genome engineering approaches to uncover the regulatory mechanisms underlying development.

Eligibility

To fulfil the general entry requirements, the applicant must have qualifications equivalent to a completed degree at advanced level (second-cycle), or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits including at least 60 ECTS credits at advanced level, or has otherwise acquired essentially equivalent knowledge within Sweden or abroad. The faculty board may, in the case of a specific applicant, consent to an exemption from the general entry requirements if there are special reasons to do so. (cf. Higher Education Ordinance) 

To fulfil the specific entry requirements to be admitted to doctoral studies at in Plant Science, the successful candidate must have completed 90 ECTS in Biology or other subjects relevant to the research area, such as Chemistry, Physics, or Computer Science. Of these, at least 15 ECTS have to be in a subject directly relevant to the research topic and at least 15 ECTS from an individual project course. Good knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is also required.  

The requirements for prior knowledge as described above are also considered to be met by those who have otherwise acquired essentially equivalent knowledge. 

Qualifications

For this position, we are looking for a person with a strong interest in molecular plant biology. We expect the candidate to have an academic background in Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.

The successful candidate should demonstrate strong skills in both written and spoken English. Valuable additional qualifications include experience in tomato cultivation and transformation. Familiarity with fundamental molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, DNA and RNA isolation, and protein biochemistry, is highly advantageous. We are seeking a creative and proactive individual who can work independently while also thriving in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment. 

About the employment

The position is intended to result in a doctoral degree. The main task of the PhD student is to pursue their doctoral studies, which include participation in research and postgraduate courses. The duties can include teaching and other departmental work (up to a maximum of 20%). The employment is limited to four years full-time or up to five years teaching part-time. Salary is set in accordance with the established salary ladder for PhD position.

Application

You apply through our recruitment system Varbi on March 31, 2026 at the latest. The evaluation of applicants will be based on their submitted materials and interviews. The application may be written in English, Swedish, Norwegian, or Danish and should include:

1. A concise motivation letter (maximum two pages) describing your interest in the position and how you can contribute to the project.
2. CV
3. Copy of degree certificate including documentation of completed university courses and grades
4. Copy of degree thesis and publications if available

Contact

If you have questions regarding the position, please contact Stephan Wenkel, stephan.wenkel@umu.se

Documents should be sent electronically, in PDF format, trough the recruitment system. The procedure for recruitment for the position is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance (chapt. 12, 2 §) and the decision regarding the position cannot be appealed. 

The Department of Plant Physiology values the qualities that an even gender distribution brings to the department, and therefore we particularly encourage women to apply for the position.

We look forward to your application!