Teaching Assistant

University of Gothenburg meets the challenges of society with versatile knowledge. 58,000 students and 6,800 employees make the university a large and inspiring workplace. Strong research and attractive education programs attract researchers and students from all over the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, University of Gothenburg contributes to a better future.

The Department of Clinical Sciences is one of six departments at Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg. At the department, research and education are conducted that focus on human health and quality of life. We represent 16 different subject areas (divisions) and are divided into four sections. Through an enriching collaboration with healthcare and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, we have developed collaborative projects and meeting places that benefit both care and research.

We are now seeking a teaching assistant for work in Peter Naredi's research group at the Department of Surgery.

Analysis of p38-MAP-kinase inhibitors to improve the effect of cisplatin:

Peter Naredi's research group studies the mechanisms of action of the cancer medicine cisplatin, focusing on the cell biological basis of its function and on identifying signaling pathways that affect the response in the roundworm C. elegans. Cisplatin is a commonly occurring drug against cancer whose cytotoxic effects are regulated by intracellular signaling pathways. One of the signaling pathways identified is the p38-MAP-kinase pathway. Downregulation of this signaling pathway leads to increased sensitivity to cisplatin.

The p38-MAP-kinase pathway has been identified as an important regulator of the cisplatin response in both C. elegans and human tumor cells.

Knowledge of how this signaling pathway can be affected can lead to improved treatment strategies. Using a humanized p38-MAP-kinase model, the research group has tested inhibitors for the purpose of conducting translational research to make cisplatin more effective. Similar work is also ongoing regarding another genetic signaling pathway that affects the cisplatin response.

Tasks

The teaching assistant will contribute to ongoing research projects in the laboratory and participate in experimental work. The tasks include:

• Performing drug treatments and cytotoxicity analyses.
• Analysis of gene expression using quantitative PCR (qPCR).
• Protein analyses, including Western blot.
• Work with fluorescence microscopy as well as image collection.
• Documentation and continuous updating of laboratory journals and research data.
• Presentation of experimental results and project progress at research group meetings.

Qualifications

To be eligible for employment as a teaching assistant, the applicant must be admitted to undergraduate or advanced level and is expected to study during the period of employment. The total employment period for a teaching assistant may comprise at most three years.

For the employment, it is required that you have documented experience of laboratory work with Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as a model system, including cultivation, genetic crosses, and drug testing. You must also have practical experience of cytotoxicity analyses as well as molecular biological methods such as RNA and DNA extraction, RNA purification, qPCR, and protein analyses, including Western blot.

Furthermore, experience of fluorescence microscopy for analysis of gene expression is required. A good ability to work structured, carefully, and independently according to given instructions and established routines is a prerequisite for the employment.

The employment also requires good computer skills as well as very good ability to communicate orally and in writing in English. Knowledge of Swedish is meritorious.

The following experiences and knowledge are meritorious:

• Experience of statistical analysis with software such as GraphPad Prism.
• Experience of image analysis software.
• Ability to read, critically review, and present scientific articles.
• Additional experience of fluorescence microscopy and advanced laboratory techniques within molecular biology.

For more information and to apply for the position, see the advertisement in its entirety at https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/lediga-anstallningar.

The university actively works for a work environment with equal conditions and values the qualities diversity brings to the operation. The university applies individual salary setting. According to the National Archives' regulations, the university is obliged to store application documents for two years after the appointment decision. If you, as an applicant for a position, specifically request your documents back, they will be returned when the two years have passed; otherwise, they will be purged. To staffing and recruitment companies and to you who are a salesperson: University of Gothenburg employs a contracted advertising agency in connection with the recruitment of personnel. We kindly but firmly decline direct contact with staffing and recruitment companies as well as sellers of job advertisements.