Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.
The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.
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We are looking for a PhD student in Molecular Biology and a special interest in parasite-vector interactions. The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start immediately or as agreed.
The PhD student will participate in activities of a dynamic research environment including the host department and the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), the Swedish EMBL node, which provide access to excellent research infrastructure of Umeå University, SciLifeLab and the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine.
Background and description of tasks
The successful applicant will develop a research project to elucidate the poorly understood molecular mechanisms that control malaria parasite development in the mosquito. As part of an international and interdisciplinary collaboration, they will be able to draw on a broad range of novel CRISPR screening, single cell transcriptomic, metabolic modeling and cryoEM technologies to understand molecular determinants of parasite development and how such knowledge can be used to block the transmission of malaria. A person who is employed as a PhD student shall primarily devote themselves to their own education. The project and research environment will give the dedicated student the opportunity to train as a first-class researcher.
Qualifications
To fulfil the general entry requirements, the applicant must have qualifications equivalent to a completed degree at second-cycle level, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits including at least 60 ECTS credits at second-cycle level. To meet the specific entry requirements for admission to third-cycle studies in molecular biology, the applicant must have completed course requirements of at least 90 credits in the main field of study molecular biology, including courses in chemistry, cell and molecular biology, genetics and microbiology. In addition, courses equivalent to 30 credits at advanced level in the subject area of molecular biology are required, including an independent project of at least 15 credits.
You must be proficient in both oral and written communication in English.
A specific motivation to conduct research in the subject area as well as evidence of previous research experience will be considered as a substantial merit. Skills in experimental genetics, molecular and cell biology, genome-wide association analysis, infection models or bioinformatics will be beneficial.
The research will use rodent malaria models in the first instance, and you need to be willing to use rodents for research. 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:
- Knowledge and skills relevant to doctoral studies within the research area,
- The ability to formulate and solve scientific questions.
- Skills in written and oral communication in English.
- Other experience relevant to doctoral studies, such as professional experience.
Good collaborative skills, drive and independent work ability are considered as positive merits.
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 1 October 2024 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 30 July 2024. 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 this 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 oliver.billker@umu.se.
More about us
You can find more information at www.billkerlab.com, www.mims.umu.se, and www.umu.se/en/department-of-molecular-biology/
