Vacant job

Umeå University is one of Sweden's largest higher education institutions, with over 41,500 students and approximately 4,600 employees. The university offers a wide variety of high-quality educational programs and world-leading research across several scientific fields. It was here that the groundbreaking discovery of the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 was made, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, collaborate, and exchange knowledge, fostering a dynamic and open culture.

The societal transformation and major green investments we see in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, this means conducting research on – and within – a society in transition. It also means delivering education for regions that need to expand rapidly and sustainably. Simply put, this is where the future is being created.

Are you interested in learning more? Read more about Umeå University as an employer.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher for a project carried out in collaboration between the Department of Diagnostics and Intervention and the Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation within an interdisciplinary research group led by Professors Carl-Johan Boraxbekk, Erik Rosendahl, and Marlene Sandlund. The appointment is for two years, with a start date of 2026-10-01 or as agreed.

Project Description

The position is part of a translational and implementation-focused research program aimed at translating results from the Umeå HIT studies into scalable and practically applicable solutions, both digitally and within community-based training. Previous research within the project shows that supramaximal high-intensity interval training (HIT), based on short, regulated cycling sprints, is feasible, safe, and effective for older adults. The training has shown improvements in fitness (VO₂peak), leg strength, and working memory. Participants have been motivated by the training method and have shown good adherence.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you are expected to further develop and translate these research findings into scalable and user-centered solutions that enable safe and effective implementation of HIT for older adults in various settings. The duties include planning, coordinating, and conducting research within the project, including data collection, analysis, scientific reporting, and dissemination of research results. Supervision of students may be included.

The work will primarily focus on:

• Co-creation and development of a digital HIT module
• Adaptation and implementation of training protocols for both home- and gym-based contexts
• Data collection, evaluation, and further development of implementation strategies
• Analysis of quantitative and qualitative data from pilot implementations

Qualifications and Responsibilities

The applicant must hold a doctoral degree in medical science or another relevant field. Applicants who have obtained their doctoral degree less than three years ago will be prioritized.

We are looking for a candidate who can work both independently and in interdisciplinary teams, has an interest in implementation research, physical activity, or exercise interventions, and has experience with quantitative and/or mixed methods research.

Experience in research regarding exercise, clinical populations, or behavior change interventions is advantageous. Experience collaborating with community stakeholders and health/training organizations is also desirable.

Other Meritorious Qualifications

• Experience in implementation research or translational research
• Experience with quantitative data analysis and/or mixed methods
• Knowledge of theories regarding behavior change
• Experience working with older adults
• Very good ability to express oneself orally and in writing in English
• Good knowledge of Swedish is highly meritorious, as contact with participants in community and clinical settings is part of the project

Application

You apply via our e-recruitment system, which you can access via the link below. Once your application is registered, you will receive a confirmation via email. The application can be written in English or Swedish. The deadline for applications is 2026-08-15.

The application should include:

• A brief description (max one A4 page) of why you are interested in the position and how you can contribute to the project
• Curriculum vitae (CV) including a publication list
• Copies of relevant degree certificates (e.g., doctoral degree certificate)
• Contact details for two reference persons

Here you can read more about the Department of Diagnostics and Intervention: https://www.umu.se/institutionen-for-diagnostik-och-intervention/ (https://www.umu.se/institutionen-for-diagnostik-och-intervention/)

Umeå University aims to offer an equal and equitable environment where open conversations between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply for the current position.

To staffing and recruitment agencies and to you who are sales representatives: We kindly but firmly decline direct contact from staffing and recruitment agencies as well as sellers of additional job advertisements.