Position in the Cellular Neurochemistry Research Project

The position is placed within the Cellular Neurochemistry research project, led by Assistant Professor Wojciech Michno, and is part of the Molecular Geriatrics research group at the Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Rudbeck Laboratory.

More information about the research group is available on the website: link (https://www.uu.se/en/department/public-health-and-caring-sciences/research/molecular-geriatrics/neurochemistry).

Job Responsibilities

The successful candidate will work in an interdisciplinary research environment focusing on genetic engineering-based strategies for cell and gene therapy in neurodegenerative diseases. The work includes planning, conducting, and analyzing experimental studies aimed at understanding and manipulating cell identity, function, and therapeutic potential.

The main job responsibilities include genetic modification of mammalian cells using advanced CRISPR-based technologies, including CRISPR-Cas9, Cas12a, prime editing, and forward CRISPR screenings. You will establish, optimize, and apply protocols for pluripotent stem cell culture, reprogramming, and in vitro differentiation, including lineage reprogramming towards disease-relevant neural models and organoid models.

The position also involves the development and application of molecular and cellular analyses to evaluate genetic modifications, cell identity, and functional outcomes, using techniques such as qRT-PCR, targeted next-generation sequencing, flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, and protein-based analyses. You will be responsible for experimental planning, data analysis, documentation, and interpretation of results.

In addition to laboratory-based research, the role includes contributing to the communication of research results through the preparation of reports, figures, and manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals, as well as presentations at internal meetings and scientific conferences. Collaboration with other researchers, including biologists, clinicians, and bioinformaticians, is an integral part of the position.

Qualifications

This position requires a PhD in biomedical engineering, molecular biology, biotechnology, chemical engineering, biomedicine, or a related field. A strong experimental background in molecular and cell biology is essential.

You must have documented practical experience in genetic modification of mammalian cells, particularly using CRISPR-based technologies (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9, Cas12a, prime editing, or CRISPR screening strategies). Documented experience in culturing pluripotent stem cells (human iPSCs and/or ESCs) as well as cell differentiation or reprogramming is required.

The position requires solid practical knowledge of molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA/protein isolation, PCR/qRT-PCR, molecular cloning, immunocytochemistry, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, ELISA, and viral or non-viral methods for gene transfer (e.g., lentivirus, AAV, electroporation, chemical transfection).

Experience in mammalian cell culture is mandatory, and familiarity with flow cytometry (FACS) and sequencing-based analysis methods is expected. The applicant should be able to plan experiments independently, troubleshoot protocols, and manage multiple experimental workflows in parallel.

Good oral and written communication skills in English are required.

Personal Attributes

Personal attributes are of great importance. You should be self-driven, proactive, and organized, with a strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams. You should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and a high sense of responsibility in laboratory work and documentation.

Desirable/Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications are considered advantageous:

• Experience in lineage reprogramming, direct cell conversion, or development of cell-based therapies
• Experience in forward genetic screenings, pooled CRISPR libraries, or high-throughput methods for genetic perturbation
• Experience with organoid models, particularly neural or cortical organoids
• Experience with targeted or bulk NGS, including experimental design and data analysis
• Familiarity with cell-based therapies or translational research in neurodegenerative diseases
• Experience in the design, production, titration, and transduction of viral vectors (lentivirus and/or AAV)
• Experience working in interdisciplinary or translational research environments

Strong teaching ability, the capacity to mentor junior colleagues or students, and experience collaborating across scientific disciplines are also considered advantageous.

About the Employment:

The position is temporary, lasting 12 months. The scope is full-time/100%. Start date is 2026-05-01 or by agreement. Location: Uppsala.

Application Instructions:

Your application should include:

• A short letter describing yourself, your interests, and why you are suitable for this position.
• CV (max. 2 pages)
• A copy of your PhD degree
• Names and contact information (address, email address, and phone number) of at least two referees

Applications should preferably be written in English. During the application period, we will continuously review applications and invite candidates for interviews.

Inquiries about the position can be directed to: Assistant Professor Wojciech Michno ([email protected] (mailto:[email protected])) or Professor Stina Syvänen ([email protected] (mailto:[email protected]))

Welcome with your application by February 18, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/334.

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 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 here (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/).

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

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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])