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.
The Department of Medical and Translational Biology at the Faculty of Medicine is now seeking a project assistant for a research project in cognitive neuroscience. The position is temporary for 5 months.
Project Description
The project investigates how the brain’s GABA system contributes to the regulation of functional brain networks and cognitive functioning across adulthood and aging. The study includes healthy participants aged 30–90 years and combines cognitive testing, blood sampling, and simultaneous PET/MR imaging to examine links between GABA signalling, brain network dynamics, and cognitive performance. The project also aims to improve understanding of why cognitive function is preserved in some individuals during aging, while others show decline or early signs of neurodegenerative change.
Work Duties
The project assistant will work closely with the research team and contribute to data collection and practical project implementation. Duties include:
recruitment of study participants
screening of participants according to inclusion and exclusion criteria
administration of cognitive testing
coordination of participant visits and study sessions
assistance during data collection related to PET/MR
support with data handling, quality control, and analyses of PET/MR data
compilation of reports and research documentation
Qualifications
It is a requirement that you have:
a Master’s degree in cognitive science, psychology, or a related field at the time of employment.
good spoken and written Swedish skills corresponding to Swedish Level 3
good organisational skills and the ability to work in a structured way
Personal Qualities
We are looking for someone who is:
careful and responsible
independent and proactive
flexible and able to collaborate well with others
professional and comfortable interacting with research participants
Meritorious
The following are considered meritorious:
previous research experience in cognitive neuroscience
experience with analysis of MRI or PET/MR data
experience with data handling and statistical analysis
Application
Your application should be written in Swedish or English and submitted via the e-recruitment system Varbi no later than 2026-06-08.
The application must include:
A short cover letter (approximately one A4 page) describing the applicant’s research experience, research interests, and suitability for the project.
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) including degrees, technical expertise, employment history, and names and contact information for 2 referees.
Other documents the applicant wishes to include.
Contact Information:
Information about the position is provided by Dr. Lars Stiernman Email: lars.stiernman@umu.se Department of Medical and Translational Biology Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå
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.
