Vacant job

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is consistently ranked among the world's leading universities. We have approximately 46,000 students and 8,500 employees in Lund, Helsingborg, and Malmö. We are united in our strive to understand, explain, and improve our world and the conditions of people.

About the Research Group

The System Virology Group is located at the Department of Translational Medicine and is led by Docent Joakim Esbjörnsson. The group uses various experimental and bioinformatic methods to combine experimental and clinical data to explain how viruses establish infection and interact with their host environment. More specifically, various experimental model systems are used to study in detail how virus-host interactions regulate pathogenesis. The research is therefore often based on complex and multifaceted (often longitudinally collected) data requiring advanced biostatistics and modeling. Additionally, identified important markers and regulators of disease progression are evaluated for their potential in new treatments or vaccines, functionally in various human cell and tissue model systems. Read more about our exciting research here:

Within the research group, we value a good work environment characterized by respect and care in our relationships with each other. We strive for a workplace perceived as developmental and stimulating for all employees, and we continuously work to create conditions for job satisfaction, development, and participation for everyone. We value both physical safety and the psychosocial work environment.

Tasks and Responsibilities

At Lund University, a postdoctoral position should provide opportunities for scientific and pedagogical merit accumulation. Primarily, there is scope for merit accumulation within research, but also to some extent in university-level pedagogical training. Teaching may also be included in the duties.

In the role of postdoctoral researcher, you will play a key role in further developing a model system based on human secondary lymphoid tissue (tonsil tissue), which has previously been established in the laboratory. More specifically, the duties include dissection and microtome sectioning of tissue, monitoring and optimization of tissue culture, cryostat sectioning, tissue staining, as well as analysis using ELISA and FACS. After optimization, the tissue will be infected with viruses, and viral pathogenic effects will be studied using various molecular biological and cell biological techniques (e.g., based on cell culture, virus titration, qPCR, and immunofluorescence). The generated data will be analyzed and presented using software such as R and Adobe Illustrator, compiled into reports, and finally by writing manuscripts submitted to scientific journals for review and publication. During the employment period, active participation in group meetings and project presentations (including your own presentations) is also expected.

Qualifications

The following qualifications are required for the position:

• A doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree. The doctoral degree must be completed no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Good ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
• Pedagogical skills.
• Relevant experience in cell biology, molecular biology (primarily PCR-based techniques), and virology.
• Excellent knowledge of English, both oral and written.
• We are looking for someone who is meticulous, self-initiative, and plans and carries out their work independently. You should have the ability to work at a high pace and make agile decisions based on evidence, with a good balance between pace, quality, and risk. Commitment to delivering high-quality results, handling challenges, and focusing on what creates value. Driven by continuous development, learning new things, building competence, and sharing knowledge. Cooperative and open in your working methods.

Qualifications that would be considered advantageous for the position include:

• Preference will be given to applicants who have completed their degree no more than three years before the application deadline.
• Knowledge of virus-host interactions and how these relate to disease development.
• Publications in well-regarded journals within the field of virology.

The assessment of applicants will primarily be based on their scientific merits and potential as researchers. Special weight will be attached to scientific ability within the subject area.

What We Offer

Lund University is a government agency, which means you receive special benefits, generous vacation time, and a favorable occupational pension.

Read more on the university's website about working with us: Work with us (#)

About the Employment

The employment is a fixed-term position for two years, 100%, with a start date of 2026-10-01 or as agreed. Employment at Lund University takes place in Sweden; therefore, you are expected to be able to perform your work on-site in Malmö.

Postdoctoral employment is limited to a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years according to the collective agreement on fixed-term postdoctoral employment (Arbetsgivarverket). A postdoctoral position is intended as an initial step in the career and as an opportunity to further deepen and broaden research competence.

How to Apply

The position is applied for via the university's recruitment system. The application must include a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position and how it matches your merits. The application must also include a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and any other documents you wish to submit (copies of grades, reference contact details, recommendation letters, etc.).

Open to All
We focus on your competence, not your other prerequisites. We are open to adapting the role or workplace to your needs.