Research Position in Medical Cell Biology

The Department of Medical Cell Biology at Uppsala University is a strong and international research environment.

The department has over 110 employees, of which approximately 25 are PhD students, 10 postdocs, and 40 researchers, teachers, and professors.

We are pleased to announce a research position within a project led by Dr. Hongji Yan at Uppsala University. This is in collaboration with the ImmunoPhysiology research laboratory, led by Professor Mia Phillipson.

As an important part of our interdisciplinary team, you will play a central role in the development of innovative gel capsules for microencapsulation and transplantation of pancreatic islets. You will participate in multidisciplinary research in a well-equipped and supportive environment and are expected to contribute to a project of great scientific and societal significance.

At the same time, you will have a broad collaboration platform and opportunities for professional development by being part of the EU-funded project NatProLub, coordinated by Dr. Hongji Yan (see website: www.NatProLub.eu (http://www.NatProLub.eu)).

Societal Significance

Autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases (AIIDs), including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and type 1 diabetes, affect 5-10% of the global population but still lack preventive and curative treatments. This project proposes two new concepts focusing on immune regulation to promote adequate revascularization after transplantation. The research is conducted at a well-established institution with a long history of diabetes research.

State-of-the-art Infrastructure

The ImmunoPhysiology laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies that enable in vivo observations of the dynamics of immune responses. Several of our imaging systems are partially developed in-house and are used together with our expertise in physiology to enable longitudinal in vivo studies. In addition to our high-resolution confocal in vivo microscopes, we also have several other types of microscopes as well as equipment for spectral flow cytometry, cell sorting, and protein and gene array techniques. The ImmunoPhysiology laboratory is located in a unique environment that allows functional and longitudinal in vivo studies, and is in close proximity to the largest national infrastructure, SciLifeLab.

Scientific Significance

The project may offer an alternative to islet transplantation and open new opportunities for treating autoimmune diseases through innovative gel formulations.

Responsibilities

The researcher’s responsibilities include:

• Experimental design
• Synthesis of materials
• Flow cytometry (FACS)
• In vitro and in vivo models
• Data analysis
• Dissemination of research results through publications and conferences
• Documentation for EU projects
• Supervision of students at various levels

Qualifications

The applicant is expected to hold a PhD or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD in biomaterials, biotechnology, biomedicine, medical engineering, chemical engineering, immunology, or a related field.

Experience with gels and materials is not required, but you will be given the opportunity to gain insight into this area. Instead, experience in autoimmune diseases or similar research areas is highly valued.

We value high motivation and enthusiasm, including initiative and active collaboration with other researchers. Our research environment is growing and establishing close collaborations both within Uppsala University and with external partners.

Your ability to work both independently and in a team, as well as your expertise in relevant areas, will be crucial for success in this role.

Furthermore, the applicant should be able to demonstrate:

• Documented expertise in the development of hydrogels, cell biology, immunology, physiology, or engineering, evidenced by degrees, publications, and other merits
• Exceptional organizational skills and a strong motivation to develop in a dynamic research environment
• Ability to independently perform complex tasks with minimal supervision
• Experience in mentoring and introducing new group members and students
• Excellent problem-solving skills and strong analytical abilities, including the development of experimental protocols
• Documented proficiency in scientific writing and the ability to summarize research results and data
• Very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written

Application should include:

• A short personal letter (max ½ A4) describing research interests and relevant experience
• A complete CV
• Copies of diplomas and academic transcripts
• The thesis (or a draft)
• Documentation of other merits relevant to the position
• Two letters of recommendation or contact details of previous research supervisors

The selection of candidates is based on qualifications, previous work experience, and personal suitability.

About the Employment

The position is temporary, 12 months. The scope is full-time. Start date by agreement. Location: Uppsala

Inquiries about the position can be made to: Hongji Yan, mailto:hongji.yan@mcb.uu.se (mailto:hongji.yan@mcb.uu.se)

Welcome with your application by April 10, 2025, UFV-PA 2025/731.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international standing. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the most exciting workplaces in the country.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at Uppsala University here (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/).

The employment may be subject to security clearance. A condition for employment during security clearance is that the applicant is approved.

We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.