PhD student in epigenetics and chromatin dynamics

About the company

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked as one of the world's leading academic institutions. It is home to approximately 46,000 students and 8,500 employees in Lund, Helsingborg, and Malmö. We are united in our endeavor to understand, explain, and improve our world and the conditions of human life. Lund University welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Equality, equal opportunities, and diversity are fundamental principles for all parts of our operations. Description of the workplace The Laboratory of Epigenetics and Chromatin Dynamics at the Department of Experimental Medical Science (Faculty of Medicine) conducts research on the epigenetic regulation of repetitive and transposable genetic elements – so-called "genomic dark matter" – in human brain development and disease. The group consists of eight research-active members and is led by Dr. Christopher Douse. We are fascinated by how these poorly explored parts of the human genome contribute functionally to human neurobiology and neurological diseases. Our work integrates advanced methods in both experimental research ("wet lab") and bioinformatic analysis ("dry lab"). More information can be found Here. As a workplace, we cherish a good working environment, characterized by respect and consideration in our relationships with one another. We work based on the following core values: Equity – everyone in the group is valuable and contributes, and there are no stupid questions. People-centric – our work is built on collaboration, and we communicate openly with each other, the scientific community, and the outside world. Integrity – we take no shortcuts and place great importance on reproducibility and accuracy in our data. Curiosity – we are humble about what we do not yet know, actively seek feedback, and are open to new ideas. Diversity – we conduct better research when we have a diversity of backgrounds and scientific expertise. Project description Currently, we are focusing particularly on three types of elements that are repetitive in different ways, but are united by their importance for human brain function and diseases: clustered protocadherin genes, virus-like sequences called retrotransposons, and CGG microsatellites (tandem repeats). In all cases, there are significant knowledge gaps regarding the epigenetic control and impact of these elements. Which factors bind to and regulate these repetitive elements in neural cell lines? How do they functionally affect the epigenome, local transcription dynamics, and disease-related properties? To answer these questions, we will combine chromatin biochemistry and groundbreaking functional epigenomics with advanced neural cell models and customized bioinformatic analyses. In this way, we will discover new, fundamental human neurobiology and gain much-needed insights into the mechanisms underlying neurological diseases linked to repetitive elements. This PhD project will combine chromatin biochemistry with functional (epi)genomics in stem cell models of the human brain. The project requires a balance between experimental laboratory work ("wet lab") and bioinformatic analyses ("dry lab"). The PhD student will specifically use the following methods: Stem cell culture (iPSCs, 2D and 3D cultures of neural progenitor cells) RNA-seq, CUT&RUN/Tag, Oxford Nanopore sequencing (cDNA, DiMeLo-seq) as well as associated bioinformatic analyses Co-immunoprecipitation and/or proteomics based on proximity labelling

Requirements

Requirements for the employment are experience in functional (epi)genomics and/or chromatin biochemistry experience in stem cell culture and differentiation models a clearly demonstrated interest in repetitive parts of the genome, in humans or model organisms, through previous experience or as described in a personal letter or during an interview very good knowledge of molecular biology and molecular genetics very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written good analytical ability as well as an independent and problem-solving oriented working style an open and collaborative approach to research, in line with the research group's values described above

Meritorious for the employment are a well-organized and self-driven working style experience of long-read sequencing experience of protein biochemistry experience of working together with others in ambitious research projects the ability to receive constructive feedback as well as a desire to develop and learn during the doctoral studies

What we offer

Lund University is a government agency, which means you receive special benefits, generous leave, and a favorable occupational pension. Read more on the university's website about being employed by us Work with us Duties and responsibilities The main duties of a PhD student are to engage in their doctoral training, and therefore you will be both admitted as a student and employed at Lund University. In addition to your full-time studies at the doctoral level, you may participate in the supervision of undergraduate or master's students. Qualifications Requirements for admission are: a degree at an advanced level, completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits are at an advanced level, or knowledge acquired in some other way within or outside the country that is primarily equivalent. the ability to assimilate the education at the doctoral level

Other

Other Fixed-term employment for four years according to HF 5 kap 7§. Start date December 1, 2026, or as agreed.