Postdoctor in Biochemistry/Immunology/Cell biology

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future. 

Subject area 
Biochemistry/Immunology/Cell biology

Subject area description 
Our research group is performing research on enterotoxin-mediated diarrheal diseases, and we are particularly interested in studying the disease symptoms caused by the toxic effects of Cholera toxin (CT). Recently we have published findings that change the dogma of how CT binds to human cells. Whereas the glycolipid GM1 was the only previously known functional receptor for CT, we have discovered that CT intoxicates mice that lack GM1. https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1006862

In addition, we have found that blocking fucosylated structures which do not express by GM1, efficiently inhibits binding to and CT-induced secretion from human intestinal biopsies. https://elifesciences.org/articles/09545. CT is also very immune-activating and thereby a potent oral adjuvant. Hence, our findings of novel receptors for CT opens up avenues for new blocking therapies as well as improved oral vaccines.

Duties 
The position will be linked to a research project focusing on identification of novel receptors for Cholera toxin. It will also assess the capacity detoxified variants by using organoids derived from human small intestine and human primary cells with the aim to generate improved oral vaccines and antidotes. The methods that will be used in the project include biochemical, multicolour flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, culture of organoids and cell lines as well as bioinformatics.

Eligibility 
The eligibility criteria for employing teaching staff are set out in Chapter 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance and in the Appointment Procedure for Teaching Posts at the University of Gothenburg. 

To be eligible for appointment as a postdoc, the applicant is required to have a doctoral degree, a doctoral degree in art or a foreign degree that is deemed to be equivalent to a doctoral degree. This eligibility requirement must be met before the employment decision is made. 

In the first instance, those who have completed their degree no more than three years prior to the end of the application period shall be considered. Those who have completed their degree more than three years prior to the end of the application period may also be considered in the first instance if special grounds exist. Special grounds relate to leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, commissions of trust within union organisations, service within the defence services or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignment relevant to the subject area.  

Assessment criteria 
This assessment shall attach particular importance to documented qualifications for:

- knowledge within molecular biology and biochemical techniques

- extensive experience within the areas of glycobiology and proteinchemistry.

- scientific analysis, presentation and teaching verified by publications, conference abstracts and supervised students.

Highly proficient in spoken and written English is necessary. Documented experiences in pull down of proteins from the cell surface as well as practical cell culture experience with primary cells preferably organoids are desirable.

It is expected that you can conduct research in a highly independent manner. We value a candidate who is driven, organizational, meticulous and effective and independent. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability as the project is conducted in collaboration with other researchers.

Regulations for the evaluation of qualifications for academic positions are given in Chapter 4, Section 3 - 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance.

Employment 
The employment is full time and temporary, two years with the possibility of one year's extension, with placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed.

Contact information 
If you have any questions about the position, please contact Ulf Yrlid, professor. E-mail:  ulf.yrlid@gu.se.

Unions 
Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande 

Application 

Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline.  

The application should contain:

- A cover letter giving a brief description of previous research experience, and a motivation to why you are applying

- A CV including a list of publications

- Contact details of two references

- Proof of completed PhD

Applications must be received by: 2025-01-24

Information for International Applicants 

Choosing a career in a foreign country is a big step. Thus, to give you a general idea of what we and Gothenburg have to offer in terms of benefits and life in general for you and your family/spouse/partner please visit: 

https://www.gu.se/en/about-the-university/welcome-services 
https://www.movetogothenburg.com/ 

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.