Vacant job

Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics. SciLifeLab is a national centre for molecular biosciences focusing on research in health and the environment. The centre combines leading technical expertise with advanced knowledge in translational medicine and molecular biosciences. SciLifeLab is a national resource operated by Karolinska Institutet, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm University, and Uppsala University. The centre collaborates with several other higher education institutions.

Administratively, the position will be placed at the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University. For more information about our activities, visit our website: www.dbb.su.se (http://www.dbb.su.se)

Project Description

A postdoctoral position is available in Emil Marklund’s research group, located at the SciLifeLab campus in Solna, Stockholm. In the Marklund lab (marklundlab.com (http://marklundlab.com)), we investigate how the sequence of biological macromolecules governs recognition, binding, and dynamic structure. We combine high-throughput measurements of molecular binding with simulations and quantitative modeling to gain a physical understanding of life at the molecular level.

We are now recruiting a postdoc who wishes to use and develop state-of-the-art methods to study the binding and dynamic structure of DNA, RNA, and proteins. Scientific questions in the project may include, for example, studying specificity in transcription factor-DNA binding, discovering protein-protein interactions, or enzyme optimization.

Responsibilities

The selected candidate will use and develop methods within one or more of the following categories:

• Optical techniques, fluorescence microscopy, image analysis: Development of microscopes, fluidics, and data analysis pipelines used to measure and quantify binding in high-throughput. Examples of suitable backgrounds: Optical technology, hardware-software integration, image analysis.
• Sequence library design, molecular cloning, and protein purification: Design and prepare molecular sequence variants for which binding is to be studied in high-throughput. Examples of suitable backgrounds: Molecular biology, protein engineering, biochemistry.
• Building quantitative models: Using high-throughput binding data to build sequence-dependent predictive deep learning models and physical mechanistic models (thermodynamic and kinetic models, etc.). Examples of suitable backgrounds: Machine learning, programming, mathematics, physics.

You will participate in designing the project according to the lab’s overarching goals and will be responsible for its execution. We are an interdisciplinary lab, and you will be encouraged to collaborate with other researchers in the team.

Qualifications

To be eligible for the postdoctoral position, a PhD degree or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a relevant PhD is required. The degree must be conferred no later than when the employment decision is made.

Selection Criteria

It is meritorious if the PhD degree or equivalent was conferred no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, a degree conferred earlier may also be considered meritorious. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, trust-based positions within trade unions, service in the total defence, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service relevant to the subject area.

During the selection process, special weight will be placed on scientific proficiency in the categories listed above, with particular emphasis on proficiency in biophysics, molecular biology, biochemistry, optical technology, and deep machine learning.

We also look for the following personal qualities:

• A curious and driven personality with a passion for basic research and/or method development.
• Good ability to work in a team.
• Strong publications or other evidence of scientific ability and maturity.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Experience in solving complex scientific problems or method development within at least one of the categories mentioned above.

About the Position

The position is full-time and permanent, but for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date by agreement.

What We Offer

Here you will experience the dynamics of the interaction between higher education and research, making Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international setting and enjoy favorable terms of employment.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination, providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Information about the position can be obtained from Associate Professor Emil Marklund, [email protected].

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University’s recruitment system. Attach a cover letter and CV, as well as the attachments requested in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring the application is complete and submitted to the university by the final application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the webpage: How to apply for a position.

Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and truth-seeking.