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 diverse range of high-quality education 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.

Interested in learning more? Read more about Umeå University as a workplace.

We are looking for a Project Assistant to work with terrestrial ecological research at the Department of Ecology and Environmental Science, based in Umeå. The position is fixed-term, at 40% for five months, from August 1 to December 31, 2026, or by agreement. The application deadline is June 18, 2026.

The Project Assistant will participate in two research projects investigating microbial processes in water and soil in northern Sweden.

Responsibilities

The Project Assistant will participate in various research activities both in the laboratory and in the field. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Sampling of lake water.
• DNA/RNA extraction.
• Processing of soil samples.
• Drone operation.

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate with at least a Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field. Since a significant part of the work will be carried out in an eDNA laboratory, extensive experience in environmental laboratory work is required, including practical experience with DNA/RNA extraction techniques. Applicants must also have documented experience working in remote areas and hold both a valid B-driving license and a drone pilot license. Formal education as a laboratory technician, certification in wilderness first aid, and experience driving on unpaved or remote roads are considered strong merits.

The candidate must be available for a two-week field campaign in the Swedish mountains in August, which involves travel and overnight stays. Any overtime during the field campaign will be compensated with payment or compensatory time off, by agreement.

Application

You apply via our recruitment tool Varbi (in English or Swedish). The application should include:

• CV and cover letter.
• Copies of certificates and diplomas.
• Name and contact details for two reference persons.

For questions regarding the position, please contact: Laurenz Teuber: [email protected]

Umeå University aims to offer an equal and inclusive 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.

To staffing and recruitment agencies and to salespersons: We kindly but firmly decline direct contact with staffing and recruitment agencies as well as salespersons offering additional job advertisements.