PostDoc Project – Molecular mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions

Project: Our lab at Umeå University (Sweden) employs a comprehensive array of genetic, cell biological, biochemical, omics, and microscopic techniques to unravel how the obligate intra­cellular bacterial pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis manipulates the biology of its host cell. We seek to expand our team!

Environment: We are part of theLaboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), the Swedish node of the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, and the Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR). These affiliations embed us in a stimulating, collaborative, and highly inter­national environment with excellent access to state-of-the art research facilities. The Umeå PostDoc Society and the National Doctoral Programme in Infection and Antibiotics (NDPIA) offer postdocs outstanding opportunities for training, career devel­opment, and social networking. Moreover, Umeå, the city itself, combines a rich cultural life with excep­tional closeness to nature and is particularly welcoming to internationals.

Qualifications: Eligible candidates hold a university degree equivalent to a European University PhD degree in molecular biology, cell biology, or infection biology (or related fields). Preference will be given to applicants who received their degree no more than three years before the end of the application period unless special circumstances exist. To be considered for the project, candidates must have documented practical experience in molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture. Prior experience in the field of host-pathogen interactions, in particular involving intracellular infections, is highly desirable. We seek candidates who are passionate about science, ready to tackle scientific challenges, and dedicated to conducting top-quality research. Proficiency in written and spoken English is expected, along with the ability to work collaboratively within a team, mentor junior team members, and independently develop and drive a research project.

Project duration: 2 years (with possibility for further prolongation depending on satisfactory performance and availability of funding)

Starting date: summer or fall 2024 (early start preferred)

Application: Candidates are welcome to send an application to the principal investigator, Barbara Sixt (barbara.sixt@umu.se). Applications should include (as a single combined PDF file in English): 1) a letter of moti­vation describing the applicant’s specific motivation and relevant qualifications, 2) a curriculum vitae, 3) a publi­cation list (also briefly describing the applicant’s contribution to each publication) and 4) names and e-mail ad­dresses of two or more references (with stated professional relationship to the applicant). Application deadline: June 15, 2024 (application may close earlier if a suitable candidate was found).

To find out more about the lab and research environment, visit the following websites:

• The Sixt Lab:http://www.sixtlab.org/
• Umeå University: http://www.umu.se/en/
• Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR): http://www.ucmr.umu.se
• The Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS): https://www.umu.se/mims/
• Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine: https://projects.au.dk/nordic-embl-partnership/
• Umeå PostDoc Society: https://umeapostdocs.com/
• NDPIA: https://ndpia.se/