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 at Umeå University, Sweden, welcomes applicants for a position as Staff Scientist in Molecular Tumor Biology. The employment is full-time and limited to 12 months. The expected start date is January 1, 2026, or as agreed upon.
Project description
Neuroblastoma (NB) arises in the sympathetic nervous system and is the most frequent extracranial solid childhood cancer, with a high degree of clinical heterogeneity ranging from spontaneous regression to fatal progression. HIF2a has been proposed as a neuroblastoma oncogene and a target for clinical intervention, this has been questioned by several studies. Our results imply a key role for HIF2a in determining a chemo-sensitive noradrenergic cellular identity and the capacity to respond to differentiation inducing treatment. Our research indicate that can act as a negative regulator of the MYCN neuroblastoma oncogene.
We intend to perform unbiased loss- and gain-of-function studies to more robustly characterize how HIF2a regulate MYCN protein levels in neuroblastoma. We will address the impact of HIF2a on MYCN's function and protein stability in neuroblastoma utilizing single cell analysis of gene expression, combined with clinical parameters, CRISPR/Cas9-deletion of HIF2a, and overexpression in neuroblastoma cells, followed by analysis both in vitro and in mouse models of the disease.
Work responsibilities
Work tasks will include but not be limited to, designing, performing and analyzing experiments in collaboration with the supervisor. The appointed Staff scienstist will carry out experiments to address the role of HIF2a as a regulator of MYCN, cellular state, and differentiation in neuroblastoma. The candidate is expected to demostrate a high level of autonomy and be able to independently and responsibly address the scientific questions of the project.
The responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, designing, performing, and analyzing experiments in collaboration with the supervisor. The appointed staff scientist will carry out experiments to investigate the role of HIF2α as a regulator of MYCN, cellular state, and differentiation in neuroblastoma. The candidate is expected to demonstrate a high degree of independence and to approach the scientific questions of the project in a responsible and self-directed manner.
Qualifications
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, or a related field, with documented experience in studies of molecular tumor biology. You must have hands-on experience working with HIF2a and MYCN in neuroblastoma, particularly in gene expression, protein biology, and imaging. You must have a strong relevant research output, as evidenced by first-author publications or publications presenting ground-breaking new research findings within the neuroblastoma field.
The candidate must be fluent in spoken and written English. As the project is collaborative in nature, the candidate is expected to work well in a team and therefore have a good ability to co-operate. Excellent communication abilities are required for effective interaction with colleagues and peers, including colleagues from complementary research fields. Strong initiative and experience in applying for research funding are required. It is considered a merit if the candidate has completed postdoctoral studies at a university other than the one where the PhD was obtained.
As an employee with us, you contribute to fostering an inclusive culture and a positive work environment. This includes communicating effectively across differences, demonstrating a collaborative spirit and the ability to work well with others. You maintain openness and a 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 - both for yourself and others.
Terms of Employment
The position is full-time and limited to 12 months. Starting date January 1, 2026, or by agreement.
Application
Apply through our e-recruitment system Varbi no later than November 20, 2025. Your application must include the following documents, written in English or Swedish:
A CV including education, a list of previous and current positions, and a publication list
A personal letter describing your research background, interests, and motivation for applying
Copies of degree certificates, including documentation of completed and awarded academic courses
Contact details for two to three references
Other relevant documentation you wish to include in support of your application.
For questions about the position, please contact Johan Holmberg (johan.holmberg02@umu.se).
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.
