Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.
The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.
The Department of Molecular Biology seeks a postdoctoral researcher who will work on the characterization of novel antichlamydial candidate antibiotics. The employment is full-time for two years with access on 1 March, 2026 or by agreement. Application deadline is 18 December, 2025.
Project description
The extensive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics is a major aggravator of the alarming spread of antimicrobial resistances. Moreover, it impacts patient health negatively by its devastating collateral effects on the microbiota. Hence, there is an urgent need for more selective treatment options.
In context of a comprehensive antimicrobial discovery campaign, the lab, headed by Dr. Barbara Sixt at the Department of Molecular Biology has recently identified a set of compounds displaying narrow-spectrum activity against Chlamydia, a group of obligate intracellular bacteria that every year causes millions of cases of urogenital, ocular, and respiratory infections. The purpose of this project is to identify the molecular targets and modes of action, as well as in vivo efficacy and selectivity of selected promising compounds.
Work tasks
The work tasks will include designing and performing experiments, presenting research results at conferences, and writing publications under the supervision by the group leader. To promote academic career development, the assignment will also include assistance with student project supervision and may include teaching responsibilities (up to 20 %).
Qualifications
To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, the postdoctoral fellow is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree in the subject areas of molecular biology, microbiology, or pharmaceutical sciences (or equivalent). This qualification requirement must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the appointment decision.
To be appointed under the postdoctoral agreement, priority should be given to candidates who completed their doctoral degree, according to what is stipulated in the paragraph above, no later than three years prior. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree prior to that may also be eligible. Special reasons include absence due to illness, parental leave, appointments of trust in trade union organizations, military service, or similar circumstances, as well as clinical practice or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area. These special reasons need to be clearly stated in the application.
To be considered, candidates need to have profound practical research experience in the following areas and methodologies:
Work with human cell cultures, work with intracellular bacterial pathogens
Molecular genetic techniques
Fluorescence microscopy
Generation of antimicrobial formulations
In vivo testing in mouse models
Previous work experience with the pathogen Chlamydia is beneficial but not required.
Given the collaborative nature of the project and the international research environment, candidates must be fluent in spoken and written English and must be able to work productively not only independently but also in a team.
Work environment and culture
As an employee with us, you contribute to fostering an inclusive culture and a positive work environment. This involves communicating effectively across differences, demonstrating a collaborative spirit and the ability to work well with others. You maintain openness and welcoming attitude, showing respect, compassion, and empathy. You engage with and support colleagues from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and promote a healthy work-life balance for both yourself and others.
Application
A full application should include:
Cover letter in which you describe your research experience and interests and motivation for applying for the position.
Curriculum vitae (CV) with publication list.
Verified copy of doctoral degree certificate or documentation that clarifies when the degree of doctor is expected to be obtained.
Contact information to two to three persons willing to act as references.
The application must be written in English or Swedish and made through our electronic recruitment system, Varbi. The closing date is 18 December, 2025. Further details are provided by Dr. Barbara Sixt, barbara.sixt@umu.se
More about us
The Sixt lab is part of the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) and the Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR), an interdisciplinary research center devoted to top quality research and novel applications in the field of microbiology. You can find more information about us at sixtlab, mims.umu.se, UCMR and department-of-molecular-biology
Umeå University wants to offer an equal environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity and development. We welcome people with different backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current employment.
We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising help.
