Researcher focusing on protein pathology in Parkinson’s disease - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The laboratory of Molecular Geriatrics is situated at Rudbeck laboratory and is closely connected to the clinical activity of the memory unit at the University hospital. Our research is focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and is performed in collaboration with national and international research groups and biomedical companies.

Project description / tasks: Parkinson's disease is a common neurodegenerative disease that causes great suffering, both for patients and relatives. At present, there is no treatment that can cure the disease and many questions remain about how it occurs and progresses. The research in the recent years has strongly supported the fact that Parkinson's disease is initiated by changes in the alpha-synuclein protein, which normally plays an important role in neuronal signal transmission. Studies from our laboratory have shown that soluble aggregates of alpha-synuclein, so-called oligomers, are particularly toxic to the nerve cells and that such protein forms may be suitable target molecules for both diagnostics and treatment. The applicant is expected to participate in our ongoing and future studies on alpha-synuclein. In particular, we will investigate the molecular link between oligomers and other pathological features, as well as the possibility of preventing the formation and / or toxicity of these protein forms. The project includes work on both cell culture and mouse models for the disease. The applicant is expected to work independently on formulating research questions, conducting experiments, processing data as well as with compiling and interpreting results.

Prerequisites: The holder of the position as a researcher must have a PhD degree and a two-year post doc experience within the research field. 

The applicant should:

• have a doctoral degree in neuroscience or neurobiology.
• have a two-year post doc experience within the research field.
• be scientifically skilled in areas that are relevant for the position, as shown by scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences.
• be fluent in English, spoken and written.

Qualifications: We are searching for an enthusiastic, ambitious and talented researcher with a genuine curiosity in solving scientific problems and with the analytical abilities needed to critically evaluate experimental data. It is essential that the applicant is able to work independently to formulate and design experiments, but good collaboration skills are also very important. Experience of working with aggregated forms of alpha-synuclein is a demand. It is also required that the applicant have extensive experience in the following techniques: immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, ELISA, western blot and various microscopy techniques.

Application: The application should contain a letter describing the applicant’s qualifications and research interests, CV, copies of relevant degrees and contact information for at least two references. The applications will be assessed based on eligibility requirements, achievements in related research areas and personal suitability. Uppsala University aims for gender balance and diversity in all activities in order to achieve a higher quality at all levels of the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

Salary: According to individual qualifications.

Starting date: 2019-09-01 or according to agreement.

Employment Period: The period of employment is 2 years. 

For further information about the position please contact:
Martin Ingelsson, professor
martin.ingelsson@pubcare.uu.se, 018-4714107

You are welcome to submit your application electronically no later than 6th of August 2019, UFV-2019/2303.