Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our mission is to pursue top-quality research and education and to interact constructively with society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has 42,000 students, 7,000 employees and a turnover of SEK 6.7 billion.

SciLifeLab (www.scilifelab.se) is a Swedish national center for molecular biosciences with focus on health and environmental research. The center combines frontline technical expertise with advanced knowledge of translational medicine and molecular bioscience. SciLifeLab is hosted by four Swedish universities (Uppsala University, Karolinska Institutet, KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stockholm University) and collaborates with several other universities.

Project description: The Sellin research group at IMBIM, Uppsala University, studies interactions between invasive enterobacteria, such as Salmonella and Shigella species, and the mammalian intestinal epithelium (www.imbim.uu.se/research-groups/infections-and-defences/sellin-mikael). Current research in the group includes infection studies in miniature cultured versions of the mammalian intestine (so called organoids), which can be generated by embedding mouse or human intestinal stem cells in a rich 3D matrix. The post-doctoral fellow will have an active role in further developing this experimental infection model system. Specifically, the project involves i) devising protocols for targeted differentiation of organoids towards structures enriched in the major cell types of the mammalian gut (absorptive epithelial cells, mucus-producing goblet cells, antimicrobial peptide-producing paneth cells a.s.o.) and ii) using the experimental model systems to analyze how enterobacteria bind and/or invade these diverse cell types. The project relies on methods for cell line and primary tissue culture, mammalian and bacterial genetics, and high-resolution light microscopy combined with complementary readouts.

Duties: 100% post-doctoral research fellow. Some teaching may be included.

Formal requirement: PhD in cell biology, infection biology or related topic. To be eligible to apply you must have a PhD completed within three years of the application deadline. If you received your PhD earlier but special circumstances exist you are also eligible to apply.

Additional qualifications: We are looking for a candidate with a strong background in mammalian cell culture theory and methodology, DNA transfection/transduction techniques, and molecular cloning. Experience with culturing of primary cells, handling of biosafety 2-level pathogenic bacteria, and/or high-resolution light microscopy is regarded as further strengths. The candidate is expected to take own initiatives as well as collaborate with colleagues both within and outside of the group. Finally, significant weight will be given to personal suitability.

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

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).

For further information about the position please contact Mikael Sellin, mikael.sellin@imbim.uu.se, +46 (0)73 9135253