Postdoctoral fellow in Medical Genetics

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. Research at IMBIM broadly spans the areas of biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, tumour biology, comparative genetics, functional genomics, immunology, bacteriology and virology. The research is essentially basic, but with relevance and application in health and disease in both animals and humans. More info: Research - Uppsala University

Project description: We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the research group of Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM), Uppsala University, Sweden. The research group, studies human and canine disease genetics including multiple different diseases as well as cancer. Specifically, for this project we utilize the dog to map modifier genes for canine degenerative myelopathy, the canine form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Once genes have been mapped in the dogs, we use this information to examine the same genes and pathways in humans with ALS. We utilize the evolutionary constraint from our 240 mammalian Zoonomia project to identify candidate functional mutations. The successful applicant will identify novel genes for canine and human ALS. He/she will also perform experimental follow-up including reporter assays and other molecular assays to better understand the identified mutations and the disease biology. The postdoctoral fellow will have the opportunity to be part of a team with an enthusiasm for science and a longstanding interest in genomics, comparative genetics and human disease. For further information about our work, please visit: Lindblad-Toh, Kerstin - Uppsala University

Duties: We are seeking an independent and self-motivated postdoctoral fellow who will investigate the role of novel ALS modifier genes in dogs and humans. The successful applicant will be responsible for driving a research project, which includes staying updated with relevant literature, conducting bioinformatics and laboratory experiments, writing and submitting manuscripts, and identifying and communicating the need for further development and research. Additionally, there may be a minor involvement in departmental tasks, such as teaching.

Qualifications and formal requirements:  Ph.D. degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. biomedicine, molecular biology, computational biology, genetics and/or comparative genetics). The Ph.D. degree must have been obtained at the start of the employment and no more than three years prior to the application deadline, however, periods of e.g. parental or sick leave may be deducted from this three-year period.

The candidate is expected to demonstrate both independent initiative and the ability to collaborate effectively with other group members and external collaborators. Practical and theoretical knowledge in molecular biology, medical genetics and bioinformatics, is considered a strength. Hands-on experience with molecular and cell biology methods is valued. The applicant should be capable of working both independently and as part of a team, with problem-solving skills and an openness to learning new methods. Given the rapidly evolving field of non-coding mutations in disease, the ability to stay updated and evaluate and select appropriate methods is crucial. Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is essential.

Application: Please submit your application including i) a CV, ii) a cover letter describing your research interests, skills and motivation to apply for the position, iii) publications and/or a copy of your PhD thesis, together with iv) contact information of at least two referees (phone number and e-mail address). 

About the employment: The employment is a temporary position of 2 years. Scope of employment 100%. Starting date as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position: please contact professor Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, Kerstin.lindblad-toh@imbim.uu.se

Please submit your written application no later than March 17th, 2025, UFV-PA 2024/491