PhD position in Mitochondrial Protein Quality Control during Ageing

We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science with an orientation towards medical biochemistry and a special interest in mitochondrial protein quality control during ageing. The position at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start during spring 2025 or as agreed. 

The PhD student will participate in activities provided by the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, thus providing interaction with researchers from different research fields and access to various scientific and technical expertise. More information about the doctoral education program, which all PhD students attend, at the Faculty of Medicine can be found here

Background and description of tasks

The PhD project in the lab of Andreas Kohler focuses on the quality control of mitochondrially-encoded proteins. Mitochondria are vital cellular organelles originating as endosymbionts and hence, containing their own genome. Encoded proteins are major building blocks of the respiratory chain, important for cellular energy homeostasis and thus, for cellular functionality. To maintain cellular health during ageing, protein quality control (PQC) of mitochondrial proteins is essential. Although we have a growing understanding of how PQC of proteins encoded by nuclear DNA works, PQC mechanisms of mitochondrially-encoded proteins remain elusive. Our research aims to decipher the molecular principles of these PQC mechanisms in health, age, and disease by using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as major model systems.

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. Our goal is to provide the supportive and inspiring environment required to ensure a good start to your research career.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold a university degree equivalent to a European University Masters degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 credit points, of which at least 60 credit points should be at second-cycle level. 

You should be fluent in spoken and written English. English skills and the ability to benefit from the education will be evaluated by the postgraduate studies board of the department.

Qualifications

A deep interest in mitochondrial biochemistry, PQC, related molecular mechanisms, and the biology of ageing is a prerequisite for this position. A strong background in protein biochemistry, molecular biology, or cell biology, along with experience in wet lab work, is required.

Proficiency with methods in protein biochemistry (e.g., immunoblotting, protein purification, crosslinking, proximity labeling) and mitochondrial biology (e.g., isolation of mitochondria, analysis of respiratory chain activity/composition, visualization, and quantification of mitochondrial content) is considered an additional asset. Knowledge and/or experience in PQC and proteostasis, molecular cloning, and genetic engineering are beneficial. Additionally, previous experience in fluorescence microscopy and/or flow cytometry, as well as skills in using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model system, would be advantageous.

You should be highly motivated and be able to work productively in an international 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, scientific reasoning, and the ability to write and understand scientific text. 

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 based on 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 be taken by the faculty’s director of studies.

About the employment

The position is intended 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 01-03-2025 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 Varbi at the latest 18-12-2024. Your application must contain the following documents written in English:

• 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 andreas.kohler@umu.se

More about us

You can find more information about our department here and about the lab here