Postdoctoral position in medical virology

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. At IMBIM, basic research is conducted in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, tumor biology, comparative genetics, functional genomics, immunology, bacteriology, and virology. The department's research is mainly fundamental, but in its application has a clear connection and significance for health and disease. A more detailed description can be found at Research - Uppsala University.

Project description

The research group conducts research and teaching in the field of virology with a focus on molecular biological studies of primarily carcinogenic human papillomaviruses and neurotropic herpesviruses such as herpes simplex and chickenpox virus. The current project on neurotropic herpesvirus and its role in disease is part of a so-called CAG-project at Uppsala University in which Uppsala University and Region Uppsala support collaborative research. The project includes analysis of herpesvirus DNA and RNA in patient samples as well as in experimentally infected and transfected cell cultures. Particular focus is on the regulation of viral gene expression at the RNA level through processes such as RNA splicing, transport, stability and translation. The aim of this project is to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms that control latency and reactivation of neurotropic herpesviruses with the long term goal of identifying novel targets for antiviral therapy. In this CAG-project, the role of herpesviruses in facial palsy is investigated. The research group performs research and teaching in the field of virology and consists of researchers, post-docs, doctoral students and students. The groups constitutes an excellent environment for postdoctoral education. Within the research group, we strive to create a workplace that is experienced as developing and stimulating for all employees. The activities are located at the Biomedical Center in Uppsala. We hereby announce a position for postdoctoral education within this project. 

Tasks

To conduct molecular biology research on the herpes virus infection cycle in neurons. Specifically how viruses regulate latency and reactivation in the infected neuron and the role of herpes viruses in neurological diseases, primarily facial palsy (Bell’s palsy). Tasks include handling patient samples and DNA/RNA analyses of these, infection experiments in primary and immortalized neurons and analyses of virus replication and gene expression in these samples. The project is permeated by hypothesis-driven experimental research to investigate how viruses control gene expression and latency and reactivation during an infection, primarily at the RNA level. Supervision of visiting researchers, doctoral students and project workers (BSc and MSc) is included in the tasks to a certain extent. Additional tasks include presentation of research results at conferences, writing manuscripts, applying for research grants and attending the research meetings within the CAG group. Teaching in the field of virology at basic and advanced levels is part of the duties. Other tasks within the research group may also be relevant. 

Qualifications

For employment as a postdoctoral researcher, a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree is required. The degree must be completed no later than the time the employment decision is made. Primarily, those who graduated no more than three years ago should be considered. When calculating the three-year time frame, the starting point is the last date of application. If there are special reasons, such a degree may have been completed earlier. Special reasons may refer to leave due to illness, parental leave or positions of trust within trade unions. 

The position requires the ability to work independently and a high motivation to drive the project forward. Several years of documented experience in the field of virology or RNA biology is a requirement and experience in both of these areas is an advantage. Documented knowledge in these subjects must be supported by research and teaching/supervision in the field of virology or RNA biology documented by publications, manuscripts and letters of recommendation from previous supervisors. Experience of mammalian cell culture work is required. Very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is required. Great importance will be placed on personal qualities. Experience of having orally presented one's own research results at conferences is a merit. Furthermore, a great sense of responsibility and the ability to interact smoothly with colleagues in the research group and with colleagues in other national and international research groups are required.  

Assessment criteria

When selecting among eligible applicants, special emphasis will be placed on scientific proficiency. In this recruitment, the university will primarily consider those who, after an overall assessment of documented qualifications, competence and skills, are deemed to have the best qualities to carry out and develop current research tasks and contribute to a positive development of the activities. 

About the position

The position is fixed-term for two years according to the central collective agreement, with the possibility of extension. The position is full-time. Starting date by agreement. Location: Uppsala, Sweden.  

Information about the position is provided by: Professor Stefan Schwartz, stefan.schwartz@imbim.uu.se 

Welcome with your application no later than November 30, 2025. UFV-PA 2025/3055