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The Department of Molecular Biology seeks a postdoctoral researcher who will investigate how the obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis maintains its intracellular niche and modulates host cell biology. The employment is full-time for two years with access on 1 Nov, 2026 or by agreement. The closing date is 3 September 2026.

Project description and work tasks 

Chlamydia trachomatis is a leading cause of urogenital and ocular infections worldwide. Its success as a pathogen hinges on its highly specialized developmental cycle and its obligate intracellular lifestyle that depends on precise modulation of host cell pathways. Key knowledge gaps concern how C. trachomatis maintains its intracellular niche and how it contributes to pathologies by inducing a lasting reprogramming of infected host cells. This project aims to apply omics approaches, in combination with molecular genetic, microscopic, and cell biological validations, to address these knowledge gaps. Ultimately, the insights gained are expected to lay the groundwork for novel therapeutic approaches.

The work tasks will include

·         Designing and performing experiments

·         Data analysis and manuscript preparation

·         Presentation of results internally and externally

·         Collaboration with other scientists

·         Mentoring junior lab members

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To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, the candidate is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree in the subject areas of molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology, or a closely related field. This qualification requirement must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the appointment decision.

To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, priority will be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree, according to what is stipulated in the paragraph above, no later[BS1]  than three years prior. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree prior to 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, as well as clinical practice or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area.

Applicants must have research experience in the field of Chlamydia-host cell interactions, including practical experience in handling human cells cultures, conducting cell culture infection experiments with C. trachomatis, genetic manipulations of C. trachomatis and human cell lines, and the application of molecular genetic, microscopic, and cell biological assays for the analysis of intracellular host-pathogen interactions. Applicants must also have some experience in working with omics data, with previous experience in proximity-labelling-based proteomics being a strong merit. 

Candidates should be passionate about scientific discovery, motivated to tackle challenging research questions, and committed to conducting high‑quality research. They are expected to be proficient in written and spoken English, to work effectively within an interactive and collaborative team, to contribute to mentoring junior researchers, and to demonstrate the ability to independently develop and drive a research project.

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   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.

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A full application should include: 

·         Cover letter describing the applicant’s research experience and interests and motivation for applying for the position.

·         Curriculum vitae (CV) with publication list (including a brief description of the applicant’s contribution to each publication).

·         Verified copy of doctoral degree certificate or documentation that clarifies when the degree of doctor is expected to be obtained.

·         Contact information (including name, email address, and professional relationship to applicant) of two to three persons willing to act as references.

The application must be written in English (preferred) or Swedish. The application is made through our electronic recruitment system. Documents sent electronically must be in Word or PDF format. The closing date is 3 September 2026.

Further details are provided by Dr. Barbara Sixt, barbara.sixt@ͯÑÕÊÓƵ

More information

Research environment

The postdoc will join the group of Dr. Barbara Sixt, a highly international research team. The lab is based at Umeå University in northern Sweden and is affiliated with the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS; a part of the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine), as well as the Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR). These affiliations provide a stimulating and highly collaborative research environment with excellent access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities, training opportunities, and networking activities. Umeå is a vibrant university city known for its rich cultural life, strong academic community, and exceptional access to nature. It is widely recognized as an especially welcoming environment for international researchers.

Additional information about the employer and research environment

·         Sixt Lab:

·         UmeÃ¥ University: http://www.ͯÑÕÊÓƵ/en/

·         Department of Molecular Biology: /en/department-of-molecular-biology/

·         Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS): http://www.mims.ͯÑÕÊÓƵ/

·         Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine:

·         UmeÃ¥ Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR): http://www.ucmr.ͯÑÕÊÓƵ

·         Umeå Postdoc Society:

Welcome with your application!