Postdoctoral fellow in Cryo EM of mitochondrial DNA transcription

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 scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

The Institute of Biomedicine is involved in both research and education. In both of these areas, we focus on fundamental knowledge of the living cell – what it consists of, how it works, how its function is directed by the genetic material, and how it interacts with various kinds of micro-organisms. Using this knowledge, we try to elucidate the causes of diseases, and find new ways to diagnose and treat them.

At present, the institute has about 360 employees and approximately 450 million SEK in total assets.

Subject area 
Cryo EM of mitochondrial DNA transcription and replication.

Subject area description 
Mitochondria contain their own genome that codes for several subunits of the respiratory chain. We have developed both in vivo and in vitro techniques to study mitochondrial DNA replication. 

Duties 
With this project the candidate will study the structure of the mitochondrial replisome using cryo EM. The aim of this project is to study the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication and/or transcription, with special emphasis on the structure and how different disease forming mutations affect the structure formation. The project mainly involves work with purified proteins and cryo EM experiments.

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

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with significant experience in cryo EM and/or structural biology. Knowledge of mitochondrial systems and documented experience with cloning, mutagenesis, gene expression, cell culture, radiolabeled isotopes, and in vitro DNA replication and/or transcription are of merit. The work will involve collaboration both within and outside the group, and so good teamwork and communication skills are important. The candidate is expected to be enthusiastic, capable of planning and executing research independently, and to have a passion and curiosity for science. Fluent written and spoken English is required since we operate in a very international environment.

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 Maria Falkenberg, professor. Phone: +46 31 786 3444, e-mail: maria.falkenberg@medkem.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 detailed CV including a list of publications

- Proof of completed PhD

- Contact details of two references.

Applications must be received by: 2022-06-01.  

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.