PhD position in Molecular Biology - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science with an orientation towards Molecular Biology and a special interest in structural biology and infection biology The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start immediately or as agreed.

The successful candidate will participate in activities provided by the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), and the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, thus providing interaction with researchers from different research fields and access to various scientific and technical expertise. More information about the doctoral education program at the Faculty of Medicine can be found at https://www.aurora.umu.se/en/organisation-and-management/organisation/faculties/faculty-of-medicine/doctoral-studies/.

Background and description of tasks

The aim of the planned PhD project is to characterize of the translation apparatus from Mycobacteria using in-vivo assays, RNA-protein biochemistry, and cryo-electron microscopy. The goal is to identify and study ribosome-associated factors in an unbiased way, to provide structural information and to uncover unique species-specific mechanisms that could serve as novel targets for antibiotics. A person who is employed as a PhD student shall primarily devote his-/or herself to his/her own education. The project and research environment will give the dedicated student the opportunity to train as a first-class researcher.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University Master degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 credit points, of which at least 60 credit points should be at second-cycle level. Required is a minimum of 30 credits in the main field of chemistry, including at least 7.5 credits biochemistry; 45 credits in the major areas of biology or molecular biology with at least 7.5 credits in genetics and 22,5 credits in the fields of microbiology, physiology and cell-and molecular biology. Additionally, at least 45 credits from second cycle studies in cell- and molecular biology including an independent work of at least 15 credits is required.

You need to be fluent in spoken and written English, which will be evaluated by the postgraduate studies board of the department.

Qualifications

Knowledge of mycobacterial biology and experience of culturing Mycobacteria are strong merits. Practical experience in protein biochemistry for overexpression and purification of nanobodies and experience with in-vitro mini-reactor systems for cultivation of anaerobic microbiota are also considered strong merits. You should be highly motivated and able to work productively in a team as well as independently. Excellent communication skills for interacting effectively with senior colleagues and peers are required. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability.

Basis of assessment

The evaluation of the ability and potential to perform well is based primarily on:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to doctoral studies within the research area,
2. The ability to formulate and solve scientific questions.
3. Skills in written and oral communication in English.
4. Other experience relevant to doctoral studies, such as professional experience.

Good collaborative skills, drive and independent work ability are considered as positive merits.

A selection will be made among qualified applicants on the basis of their qualifications and their ability to benefit from studies at the doctoral level. After the selection of the suitable candidate, the process for the admission to doctoral studies will commence. An admission decision will not be taken by the faculty’s director of studies until an individual study plan has been approved by the departmental admission board.

About the employment

The position is intendent to result in a doctoral degree and is limited to four years full time. If part-time teaching (max. 20%) can be offered, the employment period can be extended.

Start date 1st of April 2022 or as agreed.

Wage placement takes place according to the established salary ladder for doctoral student employment.

According to the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 12, Section 2), the decision on employment cannot be appealed.

How to apply

You apply through our recruitment system at the latest 1st of March 2022. Your application must contain the following documents written in English or Swedish:

• A CV with information on education, a list of previous and current employments, and a list of publications.
• Copies of relevant degrees
• A cover letter describing research experience and interests, motivation for applying for the position
• Contact details of two to three references.

Union information is available from SACO, +46-(0)90-786 53 65, SEKO, +46-(0)90-786 52 96 and ST, +46-(0)90-786 54 31.

For questions regarding the position contact jonas.barandun@umu.se

We welcome your application!

More about us

You can find more information about the Barandun lab at www.ucmr.umu.se and www.umu.se/en/department-of-molecular-biology/.