Postdoc (2 years) in host-pathogen interactions

The Department of Molecular Biology is seeking a postdoc to research how the obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis maintains its intracellular niche and affects host cell biology. The position is full-time for two years with a start date of November 1, 2026, or by agreement; the application deadline is September 3, 2026.

Project description and duties

Chlamydia trachomatis is a globally significant bacterial pathogen and a leading cause of urogenital and ocular infections. The pathogen's unique developmental cycle and obligate intracellular lifestyle enable advanced control of host cell functions, but the underlying mechanisms are still incompletely mapped. This project focuses on understanding how the bacterium establishes and preserves its intracellular environment and how it drives disease processes by long-term influence on the host cell's biological programs. By integrating omics-based technologies with molecular genetic, microscopic, and cell biological analyses, the project will generate new knowledge about host-pathogen interactions and create conditions for the future development of innovative treatment strategies.

The duties include:

• Planning and conducting experiments
• Data analysis and manuscript writing

• Presentation of results internally and externally
• Collaboration with other researchers

• Supervision of junior colleagues in the research group

Qualifications

To be employed under a fixed-term employment agreement as a postdoc, a doctoral degree or a foreign degree assessed to correspond to a doctoral degree in molecular biology, cell biology, infection biology, or a related field is required. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made.

To be employed under the postdoc agreement, priority should be given to those who obtained their degree according to the preceding paragraph at most three years ago. If there are special reasons, those who obtained their doctoral degree earlier may be considered. Special reasons refer to leave due to illness, parental leave, positions within trade union organizations, service within the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

Applicants should have research experience in the field of Chlamydia-host cell interactions, including practical experience working with human cell cultures, conducting infection experiments in cell culture with C. trachomatis, genetic manipulation of C. trachomatis and human cell lines, and the use of molecular genetic, microscopic, and cell biological methods for the analysis of intracellular host–pathogen interactions. Applicants should also have some experience working with omics data. Previous experience with proteomics based on proximity labeling is meritorious.

The applicant should have a strong interest in scientific research and be motivated to tackle complex research questions. We are looking for a person with a clear commitment to high-quality research and a good ability to independently plan, develop, and drive research projects. Excellent knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is a requirement. The applicant should also have good collaborative skills and be able to work effectively in a dynamic and interactive research environment, as well as contribute to the supervision and support of junior researchers.

As an employee with us, you contribute to promoting an inclusive culture and a positive work environment. This means that you communicate effectively across differences, show a willingness to cooperate, and the ability to collaborate. You maintain openness and a welcoming attitude, and show respect, compassion, and empathy. You engage with and support colleagues from different backgrounds and with different perspectives, and promote a healthy balance between work and private life for both yourself and others.

Application

A complete application shall include

• A personal letter describing research background, interests, and motivation for applying for the position.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) with a publication list (including a short description of the applicant's contribution to each publication).

• A certified copy of the doctoral degree certificate or documentation confirming when the doctoral degree is expected to be obtained.
• Contact details (name, email address, and relationship to the applicant) for two to three references.

The application should be written in English (preferably) or Swedish. Applications are made through our electronic recruitment system. Documents sent electronically must be in Word or PDF format. The application deadline is September 3, 2026.

Additional information is provided by Dr. Barbara Sixt, barbara.sixt@umu.se

Additional information about the employer and the research environment

• Research group: http://www.sixtlab.org/
• Umeå universitet: https://www.umu.se/

• Department of Molecular Biology: https://www.umu.se/institutionen-for-molekylarbiologi/
• Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS): http://www.mims.umu.se/

• Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine: https://www.nordicemblpartnership.org/
• Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR): https://www.umu.se/ucmr/

• Umeå Postdoc Society: https://umeapostdocs.com/

Welcome with your application!