PhD Position in Molecular Toxicology and Epigenetics

Are you interested in working with molecular and cell biological methods, epigenetics, and circadian regulation, supported by competent and friendly colleagues in an international environment? We invite you to apply for a PhD position in the Molecular Toxicology and Epigenetics group (link (https://www.uu.se/institution/organismbiologi/forskning/fysiologi-och-miljotoxikologi/forskargrupper/ruegg-labb)) at the Department of Organismal Biology, Uppsala University.

The research in the EpiTox group aims to understand the role of epigenetic mechanisms in the effects of environmental chemicals on brain development, and how circadian rhythms influence epigenetic patterns and toxic effects. The EpiTox group is part of the research program (link (https://www.uu.se/institution/organismbiologi/forskning/fysiologi-och-miljotoxikologi)), a growing and dynamic research environment where experimental models and molecular tools are used to study and understand cellular and molecular mechanisms in animals and plants that underlie the physiology, development, and environmental responses of whole organisms.

The PhD project is part of a VR-funded project investigating how DNA methylation patterns are regulated across the circadian cycle. A collaboration partner (link (https://www.antczak-lab.cmmc-uni-koeln.de/)) at the University of Cologne will serve as a co-supervisor and advisor for bioinformatics analyses.

Job Responsibilities

You will primarily work in the wet lab but will also learn and perform bioinformatics analyses of the produced datasets (DNA methylation and RNA sequencing). Laboratory work will include cell culture of mammalian cells and various molecular biology methods, including extraction and analysis of DNA/RNA as well as CRISPR-based tagging. Bioinformatics analyses will be performed using R or Python.

You are expected to plan, execute, analyze, and interpret your work independently after initial training, communicate your research orally and in writing at conferences and in scientific publications, supervise master's and undergraduate students, and engage in scientific and social activities within the group, the program, and the department.

Qualifications

Eligible for doctoral education is someone who has:

• completed a master's degree in molecular biology, cell biology, or fields deemed equivalent/relevant by the employer, or
• completed at least 240 higher education credits in education deemed relevant by the employer, of which at least 60 higher education credits at the master's level including an independent project of at least 15 higher education credits, or
• acquired equivalent knowledge in some other way

Experience with molecular biological methods is required. Since the work will be conducted in an international and interdisciplinary environment, documented oral and written communication skills in English are required.

Personal qualities will also be emphasized. We are looking for a highly motivated person with original, creative, and analytical thinking as well as team spirit. The applicant is expected to take initiative and work independently.

Desirable/meritorious

Additional merits include experience in culturing mammalian cells and CRISPR/Cas9-based techniques. A strong interest in learning, or already having experience with, bioinformatics analyses of DNA methylation and RNA-seq datasets is desirable. Basic knowledge of epigenetic and/or circadian regulation is also an advantage.

Regulations for PhD Students

Regulations for PhD students can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§ 1-7 and at link (https://www.uu.se/medarbetare/organisation-styrning/regler/).

About the Position

The position is temporary, according to HF Chapter 5 § 7. The extent is full-time. Start date by agreement. Location: Uppsala

For inquiries about the position, please contact: Joëlle Rüegg, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Welcome with your application by January 30, 2026, UFV-PA 2025/3799.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. 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 our 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 link (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/).

The position may be subject to security clearance. A prerequisite 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.

Union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), Seko - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), ST (OFR/S) - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])