Postdoc position in Medical Sciences

Wifo; Umeå kommun; On-site; SEK 433,980 - 596,723; Full time

Job summary

Wifo in Umeå is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to implement scalable solutions based on high-intensity interval training (HIT) for older adults. This role entails co-creating a digital training module, adapting protocols for home and gym use, and conducting quantitative analysis.

Candidates should possess a PhD in Medical Sciences and experience in implementation research. Strong English skills are essential, and Swedish language proficiency is a plus. Join us in enhancing health practices for older populations.

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold a University PhD in Medical Sciences or other relevant subjects.
• Experience in implementation science or translational research is highly valued.
• Excellent verbal and written English skills are required.

Responsibilities

• Co-create and develop a digital HIT module.
• Adapt exercise protocols for various contexts.
• Collect and analyze data for implementation strategies.
• Report and disseminate research findings.

Skills

Implementation science

Quantitative data analysis

Experience working with older adults

Behavior change theory

Education

University PhD in Medical Sciences

Job description

Position Overview

The announced position is part of a translational and implementation research program aimed at bridging evidence from the Umeå HIT studies into scalable real-world practice in both digital and community settings.

Previous work within the Umeå HIT project has demonstrated that supramaximal high‑intensity interval training (HIT), based on short, regulated cycling sprints is feasible, safe, and effective for older adults, with improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂peak), leg strength, and working memory. Participants also expressed high motivation for this type of training with excellent adherence.

The aim of this postdoc project is to translate these findings into scalable, user‑centered solutions that enable safe and effective implementation of HIT for older adults across contexts. The position includes planning, coordination, and execution of research within the project, including data collection, analysis, scientific reporting, and dissemination. Supervision of students may be included.

Responsibilities

• Co‑creation and development of a digital HIT module
• Adaptation and implementation of exercise protocols for both home- and gym-based contexts
• Data collection, evaluation, and refinement of implementation strategies
• Analysis of quantitative and qualitative outcomes from pilot implementations

Qualifications and Work Tasks

Candidates must hold a University PhD in Medical Sciences or other relevant subjects. Candidates with a PhD degree less than three years old will be considered first. We are looking for a candidate with the ability to work independently as well as in interdisciplinary teams; interest in implementation science, physical activity, or exercise interventions; experience in quantitative and/or mixed-methods research.

Experience in exercise training research, clinical populations, or behavior change interventions is considered an advantage. In addition, familiarity with collaboration with community partners and health/fitness organizations is also a merit.

• Experience in implementation science or translational research
• Experience in quantitative data analysis and/or mixed methods
• Knowledge of behavior change theory
• Experience working with older adults
• Excellent verbal and written English skills
• Swedish language skills are considered a strong merit, as participant interaction in community and clinical settings is part of the project

Equal Opportunity

Admission: Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment. We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising help.