Post doctor within Host-Pathogen Interactions

The Department of Molecular Biology seeks a postdoctoral researcher who will investigate the role of xenophagy in the host cellular defense against the obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis. The employment is full-time for two years with access on 1 May, 2026 or by agreement. Last day to apply is 31 March, 2026.

Research environment

The postdoc will join the group of Dr. Barbara Sixt, a well-funded and highly international research team. The lab is based at Umeå University in northern Sweden and is affiliated with the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS; a part of the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine), as well as the Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR). These affiliations provide a stimulating and highly collaborative research environment with excellent access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities, training opportunities, and networking activities. Umeå is a vibrant university city known for its rich cultural life, strong academic community, and exceptional access to nature. It is widely recognized as an especially welcoming environment for international researchers.

Project description and working tasks

Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is a leading cause of urogenital and ocular infections worldwide. Its success as a pathogen hinges on its highly specialized developmental cycle and its obligate intracellular lifestyle that depends on precise modulation of host cell pathways. A key knowledge gap concerns how Ct protects its intracellular niche from xenophagy, a major cell‑autonomous defense mechanism that targets intracellular pathogens for degradation.

This project aims to uncover the molecular strategies Ct uses to evade xenophagic responses. Building on a strong set of unpublished findings from our laboratory, the postdoc will investigate the bacterial effectors and host factors involved, dissect their mechanisms of action, and determine how this interplay shapes infection outcomes. Ultimately, the insights gained are expected to lay the groundwork for innovative therapeutic approaches that enhance host defense pathways to control or eliminate Ct infection.

The work tasks will include:

• Designing and performing experiments
• Data analysis and manuscript preparation
• Presentation of results internally and externally
• Collaboration with other scientists
• Mentoring junior lab members

Qualifications

To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, the candidate is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree in the subject areas of molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology, or a closely related field. This qualification requirement must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the appointment decision.

To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, priority will be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree, according to what is stipulated in the paragraph above, no later  than three years prior. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree prior to that may also be eligible. Special reasons include absence due to illness, parental leave, appointments of trust in trade union organisations, military service, or similar circumstances, as well as clinical practice or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area.

Applicants must have documented research experience in molecular genetic approaches, fluorescence microscopy, mammalian cell culture, and intracellular infection models. Experience in the mechanistic dissection of host-pathogen interactions, including the use of genetic screening approaches, is highly desirable. Prior research experience in the fields of autophagy or cell-autonomous immunity will be considered an advantage. Candidates should be passionate about scientific discovery, motivated to tackle challenging research questions, and committed to conducting high‑quality research. They are expected to be proficient in written and spoken English, to work effectively within an interactive and collaborative team, to contribute to mentoring junior researchers, and to demonstrate the ability to independently develop and drive a research project.

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   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

A full application should include:

• Cover letter describing the applicant’s research experience and interests and motivation for applying for the position.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) with publication list (including a brief description of the applicant’s contribution to each publication).
• Verified copy of doctoral degree certificate or documentation that clarifies when the degree of doctor is expected to be obtained.
• Contact information (including name, email address, and professional relationship to applicant) of two to three persons willing to act as references.

The aplication must be written in English (preferred) or Swedish. The application is made through our electronic recruitment system. Documents sent electronically must be in Word or PDF format. The closing date is 31 March, 2026. 

More about us

For information of the department visit Department of Molecular Biology.
Information about the group's research can be found on our website https://sixtlab.org/
For more information about the position contact Dr. Barbara Sixt, barbara.sixt@umu.se

Additional information 

• Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS): http://www.mims.umu.se/
• Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine: https://projects.au.dk/nordic-embl-partnership/
• Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR): http://www.ucmr.umu.se
• Umeå Postdoc Society: https://umeapostdocs.com

 We look forward to receiving your application!