Postdoctoral fellow in Molecular Neuroscience

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 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.

Subject area
Molecular neuroscience

Subject area description
We are interested in understanding – on a molecular level - how synaptic connections between neurons are formed and how impairments in synaptic functions may contribute to human disease. To address these fundamental questions, we combine mouse genetics and gene-edited human neurons with functional assays and protein biochemistry and proteomics. 

Our recently started research group is funded by support from the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet) and by being part of the Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine (http://wcmtm.gu.se). The lab belongs to the University of Gothenburg, Institute for Biomedicine but is physically located at the well-equipped research laboratories at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital (Clinical Chemistry).

Job assignments
The position will provide the applicant opportunities to engage in one of the following projects: 


• Study the in vivo role of genes believed to play a key role in shaping the molecular composition of specific synapses by analyzing a (yet unpublished) knockout mouse model available in the lab.
• Study mechanisms of synapse formation, with particular focus on the role of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains and their composition. Several proteins involved in the assembly and function of synapses are proteoglycans, but it remains largely unknown as to what extent the carbohydrate chains and their composition contribute to synaptic diversity and specificity. Their role will be addressed using a combination of protein biochemistry, mass spectrometry, and experimental genetics in a reductionist system for synapse formation.
• Generate and study disease mechanisms of monogenic, neurodevelopmental disease that results from genetic variants identified in the clinic and predicted to impair synaptic function. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) or induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs) gene-edited by CRISPR/Cas9 and adeno-associated virus (AAV) will be differentiated into human neurons for assessment of cellular phenotype(s).

Eligibility
An achieved doctoral degree is compulsory for a position as postdoctor at Göteborg University. 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 scholarly proficiency, 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
We invite applications from enthusiastic and motivated individuals with a PhD in a relevant field. Applicants preferably have a strong background in molecular biology and/or neuroscience. Experience in experimental techniques relevant for the project is advantageous but not an absolute requirement.

Capacity for analytical thinking and problem solving as well as good documentation skills and proficiency in both spoken and written English are required. The candidate(s) should be willing to work in a team to pursue his/her research. Personal suitability is of great importance when evaluating applicants.

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:
Please contact Fredrik Sterky, assistant professor, phone: +46 709 916 886, e-mail: fredrik.sterky@gu.se

Unions
Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg: http://www.gu.se/english/about_the_university/job-opportunities/union-representatives

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 selection of candidates is made on the basis of the qualifications registered in the application.

The employment is full time and temporary, two years, with placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed.

The application should contain:


• A cover letter giving a brief description of previous research experience, and a motivation to why you are applying (max 1 page)
• A CV (max 2 pages) including a list of publications
• Proof of completed PhD
• Contact details of two references

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

Salary is determined on an individual basis.

 


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.