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The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University, Sweden, invites applicants for a position as Staff Scientist in Molecular AI & Pathogen Systems Biology for a fixed term employment of 12 months. The position is expected to start in February, 2026 or according to agreement. Application deadline is 19 November, 2026.

Description of the project

We investigate microbial niche adaptation and stress responses using integrative multi-omics (e.g., bulk/single-cell transcriptomics, metagenomics) combined with advanced AI/LLM methods. The Staff Scientist will lead development of LLM-powered analysis and knowledge tools (e.g., retrieval-augmented generation over omics + literature, automated data-to-insight summaries, agentic workflows) to accelerate hypothesis generation and target prioritization. The role is collaborative and cross-disciplinary, interfacing with molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and external partners.

Work responsibilities

Design, build, and maintain LLM/AI pipelines for multi-omics and literature (RAG, evaluation harnesses, safety/guardrails, documentation). Lead integrative analyses across datasets; deliver clear visual and narrative outputs for decision-making. Ensure reproducibility (version control, containers, workflow orchestration, literate reports). Contribute to manuscripts, grant applications, and mentor colleagues in AI/ML and data analysis. Coordinate with collaborators and support data governance and FAIR practices.

Qualifications

Ph.D. in molecular biology, computational biology, biomedical data science or a closely related field. ~5 years of postdoctoral research experience with a strong track record in pathogen/microbial systems (e.g., stress responses, niche adaptation, host–pathogen interactions). Hands-on expertise with LLMs and modern ML: prompt engineering, (parameter-efficient) fine-tuning, retrieval-augmented generation, vector stores, evaluation metrics, and deployment of research-grade AI tools. Proficiency in Python (and preferably R); experience with data engineering for omics, containers, CI/testing, and high-quality visualization/reporting. Strong publication record demonstrating both methodological innovation and biological knowledge. Excellent written and spoken English; proven ability to collaborate, communicate complex results, and contribute to grant writing and mentoring.

Meriting

Experience with environmental or clinical metagenomics/metatranscriptomics, single-cell datasets, and ontology/metadata standards. Experience teaching AI/ML to life-science researchers and deploying internal research tools. Evidence of securing or supporting research funding.

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:

1. A personal cover letter (≤2 pages) describing your fit, how you would extend our LLM-powered analysis capabilities, and your vision for integrative pathogen analyses.
2. A curriculum vitae that documents academic education and past and previous employments. 
3. Publication list (highlight AI/LLM and systems-biology outputs).
4. A copy of the PhD certificate and other relevant degree certificates.
5. Names and contact details with e-mail addresses of two or three academic references.
6. Other relevant documentation  (e.g., code repositories, software demos, teaching).

The application must be made via our e-recruitment system Varbi, and written in Swedish or English and be submitted no later than 19 November 2026.

More about us

For information of the department visit Department of Molecular Biology.
More information about the group's research can be found on our website Mariafallman-lab.
For information about the position, please contact Maria Fällman, maria.fallman@ͯÑÕÊÓƵ

We welcome your application!