Arbetsbeskrivning

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 315 employees and approximately 450 million SEK in total assets.

This research position is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms governing the formation of deletions and other mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and how these contribute to human disease. The researcher will work in an interdisciplinary team with expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology, with a focus on mitochondrial replication and transcription.

Duties 

In this project, the successful candidate will conduct in vitro biochemical studies of the proteins governing mitochondrial DNA replication and transcription, with particular focus on mechanisms leading to mtDNA deletions. The work includes:

• Design, cloning and mutagenesis of relevant gene constructs
• Expression and purification of recombinant proteins
• In vitro biochemical analyses to characterize protein function and interactions
• Cell culture and cell-based methods to validate biochemical findings
• Analysis of how disease-causing mutations affect replication and transcription processes

The successful candidate is expected to work independently within the project and to collaborate with other members of the research group as well as with external partners. The work also includes contributions to manuscript writing and presentation of results at scientific conferences. The successful candidate will also be involved in teaching at the institute.

Qualifications 

A PhD in a relevant field is required. We are seeking a person with extensive and documented experience in in vitro biochemistry and advanced protein work. Solid experience in cloning, protein expression and protein purification, including in vitro reconstitution of transcription and DNA replication with multiprotein complexes, is required. Experience in mitochondrial biology, particularly mtDNA replication and/or transcription, is highly meriting. Experience in analysis of mtDNA deletions is highly meriting. Experience in cell culture and cell-based analytical methods is desirable. Experience in teaching at university level is meriting.

The successful candidate is expected to have published scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals. The work involves collaboration both within and outside the research group, making strong collaborative skills and effective communication important. The successful candidate is expected to have the ability to plan and conduct research independently and to demonstrate strong scientific curiosity. Fluency in English, both spoken and written, is required, as we operate in an international environment.

Employment 

The employment is full time and permanent, with placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed. Probationary employment could be applied.

Contact information for the post 

If you have any questions about the position, please contact Professor Maria Falkenberg. Phone: +46-0732309119, e-mail: [email protected]

Unions 

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/en/work-at-the-university-of-gothenburg/how-to-apply-for-a-position#collective-agreement-and-union-representatives

Application 

To apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to create an account in our recruitment system. Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline. 

Applications must be received by: 2026-04-28

The application should contain:

• Proof of completed PhD