Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 41,500 students and about 4,600 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.
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a project conducted in collaboration between the department of Diagnostics and Intervention and department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, within an interdisciplinary research group led by Professors Carl-Johan Boraxbekk, Erik Rosendahl and Marlene Sandlund. The position is full-time for two years placed at Umeå University, Sweden, with start date 2026-10-01or according to agreement.
Project description
The announced position is part of a translational and implementation research program aimed at bridging evidence from the Umeå HIT studies into scalable real-world practice in both digital and community settings.
Previous work within the Umeå HIT project has demonstrated that supramaximal high-intensity interval training (HIT), based on short, regulated cycling sprints is feasible, safe, and effective for older adults, with improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂peak), leg strength, and working memory. Participants also expressed high motivation for this type of training with excellent adherence.
The aim of this postdoc project is to translate these findings into scalable, user-centered solutions that enable safe and effective implementation of HIT for older adults across contexts. The position includes planning, coordination, and execution of research within the project, including data collection, analysis, scientific reporting, and dissemination. Supervision of students may be included.
The postdoc will primarily work with:
• Co-creation and development of a digital HIT module • Adaptation and implementation of exercise protocols for both home- and gym-based contexts • Data collection, evaluation, and refinement of implementation strategies • Analysis of quantitative and qualitative outcomes from pilot implementations
Qualification and work tasks
Candidates must hold a University PhD in Medical Sciences or of other relevant subjects. Candidates with a PhD degree less than three years old will be considered first. We are looking for a candidate with the ability to work independently as well as in interdisciplinary teams; interest in implementation science, physical activity, or exercise interventions; experience in quantitative and/or mixed-methods research.
Experience in exercise training research, clinical populations, or behavior change interventions is considered an advantage. In addition, familiarity with collaboration with community partners and health/fitness organizations is also a merit.
Other desirable qualifications
• Experience in implementation science or translational research • Experience in quantitative data analysis and/or mixed methods • Knowledge of behavior change theory • Experience working with older adults • Excellent verbal and written English skills • Swedish language skills are considered a strong merit, as participant interaction in community and clinical settings is part of the project
How to apply
You apply via our e-recruitment system which you can reach via the link below. When the application is received, you will receive a confirmation email. The application should be written in English or Swedish. Last application date is 2026-08-15.
The application shall include the following documents:
• A short description (max one A4 page) of why you are interested in the position and how you can contribute to the project • Curriculum vitae (CV) including list of publications • Copies of relevant diplomas (e.g. PhD certificate) • Contact information for two reference persons
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.
