Staff scientist in Antimicrobial Discovery

Scientist @Umeå University posted 22 hours ago

Job Description

Background and description

The department provides a vibrant interfaculty research environment and there is access to a wide range of state-of-the-art imaging, metabolomics, genomics and screening facilities. The Sixt lab is part of the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) and the Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR), an interdisciplinary research center devoted to top quality research and novel applications in the field of microbiology. The extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics is a major aggravator of the alarming spread of antimicrobial resistances. Moreover, it impacts patient health negatively by its devastating collateral
effects on the microbiota. Hence, there is an urgent need for more selective treatment options.

Work tasks

Using an innovative antimicrobial discovery approach, we have recently identified a set of compounds displaying narrow-spectrum activity against Chlamydia, a group of obligate intracellular bacteria that every year causes millions of cases of urogenital, ocular, and respiratory infections. The work tasks include designing and performing experiments, presenting research results at conferences, and writing publications under supervision by the group leader, Barbara Sixt. The purpose of this project is to determine in vivo efficacy and selectivity of our most potent compounds.

Qualifications

We seek highly motivated candidates with a Ph.D in molecular biology, microbiology, or pharmaceutical sciences (or equivalent fields) at the time of the recruitment. The ideal candidate should have academic ambitions and should be willing to take on scientific and technical challenges. Candidates must have practical experience in generating antimicrobial formulations and in vivo testing in a murine model. Candidates also must have documented practical experience in working with human cell cultures, intracellular bacterial pathogens, molecular genetic techniques, and fluorescence microscopy. Previous work experience with the pathogen Chlamydia is beneficial. The candidate must be fluent in spoken and written English or Swedish. Because the project will be of collaborative nature, candidates need to be able to work productively not only independently, but also in a team. Excellent communication skills are required for interacting effectively with senior colleagues and peers, including colleagues from complementary research fields.

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 a 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

The application must include:

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

The application must be written in English or Swedish. The application must be made through our e- recruitment system Varbi. Documents sent electronically must be in Word or PDF format. Log in to the system and apply via the button at the end of this page. The closing date is 7 May 2025.