The Department of Molecular Biology is offering a postdoctoral scholarship in Bioinformatics with a focus on gut microbiota-host interaction. The scholarship is full-time studies for two years, beginning 1st of September 2026 or by agreement. Application deadline is 19 June 2026.
The Postdoctoral Fellow will participate in activities provided by the Department of Molecular Biology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), and the Umeå Centrum for Microbial Research (UCMR), thus providing interaction with researchers from different research fields and access to various scientific and technical expertise.
Are you interested in knowing more about what it means to be a scholarship holder, read more here: Postdoctoral scholarships
Project description
The Schröder lab, situated in the Department of Molecular Biology and the Laboratory of Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), is a dynamic and stimulating multidisciplinary research environment focused on host-microbe interaction in the intestine. We integrate a broad range of wet‑lab techniques, including microbiota transplantation (FMT), state‑of‑the‑art ex vivo mucus function analyses, and confocal microscopy, with data‑driven -omics approaches, such as gut microbiota sequencing, metabolomics, and RNA‑seq analyses. The team studies dietary interventions in both mice and humans and works in close collaboration with clinicians and nutrition scientists, facilitated through a broad international network.
Our recent findings demonstrate that shifts in gut microbial communities can alter mucus function, and that specific microbial metabolites are essential for maintaining an intact and functional mucus barrier. Building on this foundation, the project will apply data‑driven strategies to further elucidate microbiota–mucus interactions in intestinal health and disease.
Qualifications
The post-doctoral fellow is required to have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree within the area bioinformatic. This qualification requirement must be fulfilled no later than at the time of the decision about scholarship recipient.
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 before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, candidates who completed their doctoral degree before 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, or other forms of appointment/assignment relevant to the subject area.
For this project, we seek candidates with the following expertise:
· Documented practical experience in -omics analyses (metagenomics, RNAseq, metabolomics) analysis using R or Python as well as interpretation of the data
· Experience with gut microbiota sequencing analyses (Metagenomics: MetaPhlAn/Kraken/MAG construction)
· Documented productivity through publications in international top peer-reviewed journals
Furthermore, the following skills are desirable
· international working experience
· experience with multi-omics analyses
· experience with machine learning approaches
Since the project involves interactions with other team members or collaboration partners, very good communication skills, both oral and written, in English are a must. Further, we expect high intrinsic motivation and the ability to your independently organize the project.
Our offer
The Schröder laboratory fosters 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. We maintain openness and welcoming attitude, showing respect, compassion, and empathy. We engage with and support colleagues from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and promote a healthy work-life balance.
Our local and international collaborations will provide the opportunity to expand your own professional network. Furthermore, the Umeå Postdoc Society https://umeapostdocs.com, will provide a platform for skills development through workshops and courses, and to develop social interactions through networking and social events.
Application The application should be written in English or Swedish, and attached documents should be in Word or PDF format. The application should be registered via Umeå University’s e-recruitment system Varbi and submitted by the deadline 19 June, 2026.
Cover letter (max. 1 page) clearly describing your research experience, motivation and how your expertise matches the requirements.
Curriculum vitae (CV, max. 2 pages) and publication list (max. 5 pages).
Verified copy of doctoral degree certificate or documentation that clarifies when the degree of doctor is expected to be obtained.
