Vacant job

Department of Plant Biology

The Department of Plant Biology is seeking a researcher based in Uppsala to investigate how non-coding RNA controls plant regeneration. Non-coding RNA is a recently discovered and largely unexplored aspect of gene regulation that we believe plays a crucial role in how plants regenerate tissues. This position is in partnership with Dr. Sebastian Marquardt’s group at Lund University.

About the Job

The purpose of this research position is to build upon the latest discoveries in plant regeneration (Kareem et al. 2025, Nature Plants; Feng et al. 2024, Nature Plants; Zhang et al. 2022, Current Biology) and apply these findings to increase our understanding of regeneration processes at the graft junction in plants. The project will characterize the transcriptional landscape during plant regeneration to identify coding and non-coding RNAs that change expression. Relevant candidates will be investigated further to understand how non-coding RNA regulates regeneration. The project will utilize the latest sequencing technology and employ CRISPR/Cas9 techniques to generate mutants. Modified plants will be tested for their ability to inhibit or enhance regeneration. The project will be coordinated together with Dr. Sebastian Marquardt, an expert in non-coding RNA.

The project's results will contribute to improved methods for plant grafting and plant regeneration. The research position is fully funded through a project grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The successful candidate will work in Charles Melnyk’s research group (https://melnyklab.com/ (https://melnyklab.com/)).

Your Background

Applicants must hold a PhD in plant developmental biology, plant genetics, or plant molecular biology. At least two years of postdoctoral experience is also required in plant biology involving regeneration and non-coding RNA. The applicant should have a strong publication record with several first-author manuscripts published. Previous experience working with Arabidopsis thaliana is essential. Creativity, motivation, and drive are important personal qualities that are desirable. Good command of English is a prerequisite, as is the ability to conduct independent research, take initiative, pose relevant scientific questions, and interact with other researchers. Evidence of previous international collaborations and international conference presentations is also highly desirable.

About Us

The researcher is funded by a project grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation, and the appointed researcher will work in Charles Melnyk’s research group (https://melnyklab.com/ (https://melnyklab.com/)). The department is located at Biocentrum at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). Uppsala is a vibrant university city located near Stockholm (40 minutes by train) and Arlanda Airport (20 minutes by train).

More information about the department: https://www.slu.se/en/departments/plant-biology-forest-genetics (https://www.slu.se/en/departments/plant-biology-forest-genetics)

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu (https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu)

Location:

Uppsala

Employment Type:

Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period.

Scope:

100%

Start Date:

By agreement.

Application:

We welcome your application via the button below by 2026-07-31.

Special documents to be attached to the application: (1) CV including publication list, (2) description of research experience, (3) cover letter, and (4) names of two to three reference persons.

Union Representatives:

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ (https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/)

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable life, grounded in science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems, and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. The main campuses are in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites throughout the country. SLU has over 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over 4.5 billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campus areas. We work for an equal and inclusive working environment where open dialogue between people with different experiences lays the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.