Postdoctoral fellow in Mitochondrial gene expression

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 49 000 students and 6 400 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.

The Institute is composed of the following four departments:


• The Department of Infectious Diseases
• The Department of Microbiology and Immunology
• The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology
• The Department of Laboratory Medicine

At present, the institute has about 360 employees and approximately 440 million SEK in total assets.

We are currently seeking a highly talented, innovative and results-driven researcher for a postdoctoral position in Mitochondrial Biogenesis in the Martin Ott laboratory at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine at the Göteborg University, Sweden

Subject area
Mitochondrial gene expression.

Subject area description
Mitochondria contain their own genome that codes for several subunits of the respiratory chain. The expression of this genome is carefully regulated and mutation that disturb the function of this system can lead to a number human diseases. We, in our lab, study mitochondrial DNA gene expression and how mutations affecting the transcription machinery cause disease.

Job assignments
In this project the candidate will study how the mitochondrial genome is expressed in human cells. The project involves work with purified proteins and in vitro experiments. The work includes studies with electron microscopy to determine the structure of protein complexes. The successful candidate will also contribute to the identification and synthesis of small molecular compounds that can regulate mitochondrial gene expression in vivo.

Eligibility
A doctoral degree is compulsory for a position as postdoctor at the University of Gothenburg. The doctoral thesis shall be in a relevant area according to the specific position stated here. Since a position as postdoctor aims to give new holders of the doctorate the opportunity mainly to strengthen and develop their scientific excellence, we aim for those who have a doctoral degree not older than 3 years counting from last date of application.

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

Assessment
The ideal candidate will have surface chemistry and biochemistry experience, ideally with good knowledge of chemical synthesis, self-assembly, and protein-surface interactions. Moreover, experience in imaging techniques including fluorescence and electron microscopy is highly valued. Fluent knowledge of the English language is required, including the ability to write and edit manuscripts for publication. Demonstrated ability of this is valued. The work involves collaboration within and outside the group, therefore previous external collaborative experience and good teamwork skills are important. Previous supervision of PhD or Master’s students is also of merit.

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 placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed.

For further information:
If you have any questions about the position, you are welcome to contact Professor Claes Gustafsson. Phone: +46 31 786 3826, e-mail: claes.gustafsson@medkem.gu.se

Unions
Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg:
https://www.gu.se/en/about-the-university/work-at-the-university-of-gothenburg/how-to-apply

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/

How to apply
In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the 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
• Proof of completed PhD
• Contact details of two references

Closing date: 2021-02-24


The University of Gothenburg promotes equal opportunities, equality and diversity.

Salary is determined on an individual basis.

Applications will be destroyed or returned (upon request) two years after the decision of employment has become final. Applications from the employed and from those who appeal the decision will not be returned.



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.