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We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science with an orientation towards Molecular Biology and a special interest in innate immunity, infection biology and proteomics. The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start in October 2026 or as agreed. 

The PhD student will participate in activities provided by the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), and the Umeå Centrum for Microbial Research (UCMR), thus providing interaction with researchers from different research fields and access to various scientific and technical expertise. 

A person who is employed as a PhD student shall primarily devote his-/or herself to his/her own education. More information about the doctoral education program at the Faculty of Medicine can be found at www.ͯÑÕÊÓƵ/en/faculty-of-medicine/education/doctoral-studies/.

Work tasks

The PhD student will aim to discover and study the function of new small proteins (microproteins) involved in innate immune responses and host-pathogen interactions. The project will involve a combination of computational and experimental approaches including mammalian tissue culture, genetic engineering, proteomics and animal infection models.

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.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University Master degree or completed course requirements of at least 240 credit points, of which at least 60 credit points should be at second-cycle level. Required is a minimum of 30 credits in the main field of chemistry, including at least 7.5 credits biochemistry; 45 credits in the major areas of biology or molecular biology with at least 7.5 credits in genetics and 22,5 credits in the fields of microbiology, physiology and cell-and molecular biology. Additionally, at least 45 credits from second cycle studies in cell- and molecular biology including an independent work of at least 15 credits is required. 

You must be proficient in both oral and written communication in English.

Qualifications

You should have experience working with mammalian tissue culture cells and proteomics. In addition, having a license and experience with animal work is desirable. 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.

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.

Basis of assessment

The evaluation of the ability and potential to assimilate the education is mainly based 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 on the basis of 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 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 in October 2026 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 8 July 2026. Your application must contain the following documents written in English (preferably) 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 the position 
• Contact details of two to three references.

For questions regarding the position contact iker.aramburu@ͯÑÕÊÓƵ

More about us

You can find more information at and www.ͯÑÕÊÓƵ/en/department-of-molecular-biology.