Postdoctoral scholarship at Umeå university, Sweden

Postdoctoral scholarship in GPCR signaling in host-pathogen interaction 

The Department of Molecular Biology is offering a postdoctoral scholarship within the project "Unraveling GPCR-mediated signaling pathways in C. elegans during bacterial pathogen infections",  in the laboratory of Dr. Changchun Chen. The scholarship is full-time for two years with access 1 June 2025 or by agreement.  

Departmental specific information 

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.

Project description  

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow, focusing on unraveling GPCR-mediated signaling pathways in C. elegans during bacterial pathogen infections. Using novel high-throughput GPCR and neuropeptide mutant libraries, we aim to identify key receptors and signaling components that regulate immune and behavioral responses to Vibrio cholerae. The goal of the project is to uncover conserved principles of GPCR signaling in host defense mechanisms, with translational implications for understanding immune responses in higher organisms, including humans. The project integrates genetics, molecular biology, and pathogen-host interaction studies, providing an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in GPCR biology.

Qualifications  

The post-doctoral fellow is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degreeequivalent to a doctoral degree  in biology, genetics, or biochemistry . This qualification requirement must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the decision about scholarship recipient. 

Preference will be given to highly motivated applicants who can operate independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative group environment. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines. Prior experience with C. elegans is advantageous but not essential.

Priority should be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree, according to what is stipulated in the paragraph above, no later than three years prior. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree before that may also be eligible. Special reasons include absence due to illness, parental leave, appointments of trust in trade union organizations, military service, or similar circumstances, or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area.

Application  

The application should be written in English or Swedish, and attached documents should be in Word or PDF format. The application should be registered via Umeå University’s e-system Varbi and submitted by the deadline 15 January 2025.

Further information 

Read more about the department here: Department of Molecular Biology

For questions about the stipend contact Changchun Chen, changchun.chen@umu.se

We look forward to receiving your application!