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. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.
The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.
We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science with an orientation towards Molecular Biology and a special interest in single-cell methods development, bioinformatics and microbiome. The position at the Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is temporary for four years to start 1 January 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. More information about the doctoral education program at the Faculty of Medicine can be found at doctoral studies at the Faculty of Medicine.
Background and description of tasks
This project aims to develop single-cell technology to study microbes. This involves microfluidic handling, developing protocols for RNA-seq, whole-genome sequencing, and targeted capture of genomic DNA for perturbation experiments. Furthermore, the applicant will analyze the data and develop analysis methods as required. 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 requirements
To fulfil the general entry requirements, the applicant must have qualifications equivalent to a completed degree at second-cycle level, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits including at least 60 ECTS credits at second-cycle level. To meet the specific entry requirements for admission to third-cycle studies in molecular biology, the applicant must have completed course requirements of at least 90 credits in the main field of study molecular biology, including courses in chemistry, cell and molecular biology, genetics and microbiology. In addition, courses equivalent to 30 credits at advanced level in the subject area of molecular biology are required, including an independent project of at least 15 credits.
Qualifications
The applicant should have experience of handling bacteria and single-cell microfluidic devices (ideally semi-permeable capsules and split-pool barcoding) and NGS protocol development (ideally of RNA-seq, whole-genome sequencing, transposon assays, and inverse PCR). The applicant should have experience of R or Python, and Linux shell scripts. 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. You must be proficient in both oral and written communication in English. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability.
Basis of assessment
The evaluation of the ability and potential to perform well is based primarily 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 1 January 2025 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 10 December 2025. Your application must contain the following documents written in English 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
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.
