Vacant job

Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine

The Department of Medical and Translational Biology is advertising a postdoctoral position in medical science with a focus on experimental biomedical research, specifically targeting the musculoskeletal system. The employment period is a minimum of two and a maximum of three years, full-time, starting October 1, 2026, or as agreed.

Project Description

Our research group studies the mechanisms governing tendon healing and the functional communication between muscle and tendon cells. The overarching goal of the project is to characterize and identify factors in the muscle cell secretome under both mechanical loading and unloading conditions, as well as to clarify their significance for tendon healing and underlying signaling pathways.

Wound healing-related processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, collagen production, and matrix organization are analyzed in advanced in vitro models, including three-dimensional cell culture systems. We also model the inflammatory process during tendon healing by culturing inflammatory cells to better understand their role in the healing process.

To identify previously unknown mediators in the interaction between muscle and tendon cells, we utilize large-scale omics methods, including RNA sequencing and proteomics. The project also involves the collection and analysis of blood samples from individuals before and after intervention, to investigate effects in our in vitro models and to lay the groundwork for a future clinical pilot study.

Responsibilities

This is a translational research project combining advanced in vitro models with the analysis of blood samples from individuals before and after training/intervention. The project aims to study how systemic factors affect tendon healing and to lay the foundation for a clinical pilot study.

You will have a central and independent role in the project and work with:

• Establishment, isolation, culture, and differentiation of primary human muscle, tendon, and inflammatory cells, with a particular focus on macrophages.
• Use of in vitro models for mechanical loading of muscle cells.
• Three-dimensional in vitro models for tendon formation and tendon healing.
• Omics techniques, including sample preparation, data analysis, and interpretation of results from e.g., RNA sequencing and proteomics.
• Protein analysis using methods such as Western blot and ELISA.
• Gene expression analysis, including quantitative PCR (qPCR) for mRNA expression analysis.
• Immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry, including tissue preparation, sectioning, and staining.
• Microscopic analysis with a focus on confocal microscopy and image analysis.
• Contribution to study design, method development, and selection of analysis strategies.
• Data visualization and presentation, as well as participation in writing scientific publications.
• Close collaboration with researchers and other members of the project group.

Qualifications

To be eligible, the candidate must have completed a PhD degree or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a PhD. This requirement must be met no later than the time the decision regarding the postdoctoral appointment is made.

Other Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated person with documented experience in contributing to challenging and productive research. You must be able to work both independently and in close collaboration with the research group. A strong background in experimental research is desirable, particularly experience with molecular and biochemical laboratory techniques such as qPCR, immunocytochemistry, Western blot, as well as experience working with primary cultures of human muscle and tendon cells and inflammatory cells, with a special focus on macrophages. Experience with three-dimensional cell culture models for tendon regeneration and healing, as well as mechanical loading models, is meritorious. Experience with co-cultures of different cell types is also meritorious.

Great importance is attached to the applicant's ability to collaborate and suitability for the specific project.

More information about the position

The position is a fixed-term full-time employment for two years (with the possibility of extension to three years) in accordance with the contractual terms for fixed-term employment as a postdoctoral researcher. The start date is October 1, 2026, or as agreed. A prerequisite for the contract to be applicable is that the employee has not previously been employed as a postdoctoral researcher under this agreement for more than one year within the same or a closely related field of study at the same employer.

More information about the research group's research can be found on our website (Backman Lab).

Application

The application should be written in Swedish or English and include:

• A cover letter explaining why you are applying and why you are suitable for the position.
• A CV.
• A list of publications.
• A copy of the PhD diploma.
• Contact information for at least two reference persons.

The application should be submitted via our e-recruitment system, Varbi, and must be received no later than 2026-06-05.

For further information, please contact Ludvig Backman, [email protected]

More information about the group's research can be read on our website: https://www.umu.se/personal/ludvig-backman/

We welcome your application!

Umeå University aims to offer an equal and equitable environment where open dialogue between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lays the foundation for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

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