Two PhD positions in Medical Science with orientation to Molecular Biology

Umeå universitet; Umeå kommun; On-site; SEK 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Swedish university in Umeå is seeking two PhD students in Medical Science focused on Molecular Biology. The projects involve researching immune system mechanisms and tumor cell behavior, employing advanced techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 and imaging. Candidates should hold a relevant Master's degree and have laboratory experience. Applications are open until 29 October 2025.

Qualifications

• Prior experience with basic laboratory techniques required.
• Experience in immunology, developmental biology, imaging techniques, and CRISPR/Cas9-based mutagenesis valued.

Responsibilities

• Participate in research activities in Molecular Biology.
• Conduct experiments using invertebrate models and human cells.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Immunology

Developmental biology

Imaging techniques

CRISPR/Cas9-based mutagenesis

Bioinformatics

Education

Master's degree in Chemistry or related field

Completed course requirements of at least 240 credits

Job description

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields.

The Faculty of Medicine, which consists of 12 departments, is responsible for biomedical research and courses in the field of nursing and health care and has an extensive research and graduate education in more than 80 subjects.

The Department of Molecular Biology is looking for two PhD students in Medical Science with an orientation towards Molecular Biology and a special interest in Immunology, Tumor biology, Developmental Biology and Evolution. The positions are temporary for four years with start 1 January 2026 or upon agreement.

Background and description of tasks

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.umu.se/en/faculty-of-medicine/education/doctoral-studies/.

PhD project 1:

• The PhD project involves research using invertebrate model systems to investigate the mechanisms by which potential host genome editing processes enhance antigen receptor diversity, contributing to a deeper understanding of the human immune system. The experimental work will involve a variety of advanced techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9-based mutagenesis, imaging, genomics, and single-cell transcriptomics.

PhD project 2:

• The PhD project involves research using human cells to investigate how tumor cells can escape immune surveillance by hijacking the immune system signaling pathways and adhesion molecules. The experimental work will involve a variety of advanced techniques, including high end microscopy, molecular and biochemistry techniques as lipid bilayers.

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.

Qualifications

For PhD Project 1: You should have prior experience with basic laboratory techniques. Experience in immunology, developmental biology, imaging techniques, microinjection, and CRISPR/Cas9-based mutagenesis will be highly valued. Experience in bioinformatics or a willingness to develop such skills is considered an asset.

For PhD Project 2: You should have prior experience with basic laboratory techniques. Experience in immunology, cell and molecular biology, imaging techniques and CRISPR/Cas9-based will be highly valued. Experience in programing in image analysis or a willingness to develop such skills is considered an asset.

Application

You apply through our recruitment system at the latest 29 October 2025. 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 [e-mail] or [e-mail].

Umeå University strives 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.