PhD Position in Virology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. The department's research covers three collaborative and partially integrated areas; cancer, infections and defense as well as genetics and genomics.

More info: http://www.imbim.uu.se/research-areas/

Åke Lundkvist group at IMBIM now seeks a motivated candidate with the ability to work independently and with a strong interest in pursuing a PhD degree in Microbiology at Uppsala University. The research project will focus on studying inhibitors against Flaviviruses and Coronaviruses.

Project description and working tasks: Zoonotic Flaviviruses and coronaviruses cause several human diseases and pose a serious threat for outbreaks. Nevertheless, no approved antiviral treatment or prophylaxis antiviral treatment are currently available against any virus within the Flavivirus genus, like Tick borne encephalitis (TBE), Zika, West Nile and Dengue virus, and Coronaviruses like SARS, MERS and the novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). This project aims to identify and test novel inhibitors against Flaviviruses and Coronaviruses using a combination of in-silico, enzymatic and cell-based techniques that we plan to expand introducing advanced methods in structural biology and biophysics. The project will mainly, but not only, focus on TBE and  SARS-CoV-2 viruses.

Qualifications: Candidates should hold a M.Sc. degree or equivalent, with a focus on infection biology, biochemistry or molecular biology. We are looking for a candidate with solid basic microbiology knowledge and preferably laboratory experience in viral molecular methods. Good knowledge of virus-cell culturing and bioinformatics is required. The candidate is expected to take own initiatives as well as to collaborate with national and international colleagues both within and outside of the group. Good ability to master English in written and oral form is a requirement. Significant weight will be given to personal suitability.

The selection is based on the following criteria: completion of the above qualifications, grades in relevant courses, suitability of the courses to the research program, previous experience in working and/or performing research in the wider area that relates to the project described above. An integrated assessment of the applicant is generated in order to employ the best possible candidate that can succeed in the doctoral studies and contribute to a positive development of the research program.

To be employed as a PhD student, the applicant must be accepted in the postgraduate program. Information concerning doctoral education, requirements and rules of admission can be found in: http://www2.medfarm.uu.se/utbildning/forskarniva/. The length of the study period for full time employment is a maximum of four years. Terms for graduate studies can be found in Högskoleförordningen 5 kap §§1-7.

Formal Duties: The successful candidate will be engaged in research and doctoral studies. This involves infection experiments in different animal models as well as molecular studies of the viruses used, molecular analysis, cell culture, and different bioinformatics tools. Other duties at the department, i.e. administration and teaching, may be included in the employment up to a maximum level of 20 %.

Application: Please submit your application by using the Uppsala University application portal, and by including i) a CV, ii) publications and/or a copy of master thesis or equivalent, iii) a letter describing your research interests, skills and motivation to apply for the position, together with iv) contact information of at least two referees (phone numbers and e-mail addresses).

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.

Starting date: As soon as possible or according to agreement.

Type of position: Full time position of a maximum of four years.

For further information about the position please contact: Åke Lundkvist, ake.lundkvist@imbim.uu.se

Please submit your application by April 7, 2020, UFV-PA 2020/1123.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.