The Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, is looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher in human immunology. The two-year position will be based at the Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Sweden. The position is funded by the Kempe foundation
Position description:
This project aims to understand why some individuals treated with anti-CD20 antibodies, like rituximab, can be effectively boosted by vaccination while others cannot (Gröning et al, Front Imm 2023). You will use recently developed technology in genomic and proteomic B cell / antibody repertoire sequencing to examine vaccine-induced antibody and B cell responses in rituximab-treated multiple sclerosis patients across three doses of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. The goal is to identify key immune markers that predict successful vaccine boosting, and to reveal basic mechanism of vaccine boosting during B cell depleting therapy.
You will be based in the immunology laboratories of Associate Professor Johan Normark and Professor Mattias Forsell, Department of Clinical Microbiology. Moreover, you will work closely with physicians at the infectious disease unit and the connected University Hospital, and with experts at mathemathical modelling at the translatioanl research hub IceLab, Umeå University.
Work responsibilities
As a postdoc in our team, you will be an integral part of a dynamic and ambitious research group that focuses on genetic, molecular, and functional analyses of B cell and antibody responses. Your work will involve laboratory-based research, extensive data analysis, and project management in collaboration with our partners. The position also offers opportunities for gaining teaching experience, particularly in immunology and hematology.
Entry requirements:
Qualification requirements:
To qualify the applicant must hold a doctoral degree or a foreign qualification deemed equivalent to a doctorate in Immunology, Infectious Diseases or similar.
The applicant should have extensive hands-on experience working with cellular immunology and the adaptive immune system. Working knowledge of VDJ-sequencing of human tissue is meritorious. Documented experience with multicolor flow cytometry, ELISpot and in vitro B- and T cell culture systems, is highly advantageous. The candidate must be able to carry out independent scientific research work and be able to write scientific reports and publications. Fluency in written and spoken English as well as strong computational skills is required. Emphasis will be placed on personal suitability, organizational skills, collaborative work together with technology facilities (national and international) and the clinic, as well as on genuine enthusiasm for the topic and methodology.
Application process:
The application must contain the following documents in English: A one page cover letter highlighting your most important first-author publication in an international scientific journal and general research interests, a CV (max 2 pages) including a list of publications and contact information for three referees.
Application must be made through e-recruitment system Varbi and be received no later than 2025-09-16, Reference number: FS 2.1.6-1585-25.
Information
For further information, please contact Associate Professor Johan Normark, Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, + 46 (0) 73 021 1221, johan.normark@umu.se
