Fully Funded Postdoctoral Position in Phage-Bacteria Interactions at Lund University, Sweden

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3 months ago

Fully Funded Postdoctoral Position in Phage-Bacteria Interactions at Lund University

Lund University’s Faculty of Medicine, one of the world’s leading research institutions, is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Position in Phage-Bacteria Interactions. This fully funded opportunity is part of the prestigious AMBER program, supported by the EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND scheme, which aims to foster groundbreaking research in molecular biology and biochemistry.

About the Research

This postdoctoral project investigates antiphage defense mechanisms in bacteria. Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that prey on bacteria, and bacteria counteract through defense systems, such as CRISPR-Cas. The lab focuses on identifying novel, unpublished antiphage defense systems using bioinformatics, microbiological assays, and structural biology.

Key topics include:

Discovery and characterization of new antiphage defense systems.
Detailed molecular and structural analysis of defense mechanisms.
Cross-disciplinary studies involving phage microbiology, biochemistry, cryo-EM, and structural bioinformatics.

This research is supervised by Dr. Vasili Hauryliuk (PI) and co-supervised by Dr. Gemma Atkinson (structural bioinformatics) and Dr. Pontus Gourdon (cryo-EM).

The AMBER Program Context

The project is part of AMBER (Advanced Multiscale Biological Imaging), a collaborative initiative with top European institutions, including:

MAX IV Laboratory (Sweden)
European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)
Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) (France)
Leicester Institute of Structural and Chemical Biology (UK).

The program emphasizes innovation in biological imaging to address health and disease challenges. AMBER fellows gain access to unparalleled facilities, expertise, and career development opportunities across Europe.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct advanced phage microbiology experiments to uncover bacterial defense systems.
Apply cryo-EM techniques and structural bioinformatics to analyze molecular interactions.
Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across Europe.
Contribute to educational activities, including limited teaching responsibilities (max. 20% of work time).

Eligibility Criteria

Essential Qualifications

PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, or related fields.
Proven research experience demonstrated through publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Strong expertise in at least one of the following:
- Phage microbiology, especially antiphage defense systems.
- Biochemical analysis of proteins or DNA systems.
- Structural biology (cryo-EM or structural bioinformatics).

Additional Qualifications

Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, immunoblotting).
Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and in teams.

AMBER Program Requirements

Applicants must not have resided or worked in Sweden for more than 12 months within the last 3 years.
A maximum of 8 years of postdoctoral experience is allowed.

Benefits and Compensation

Contract Duration: 36 months (full-time).
Start Date: August 1, 2025.
Salary: Competitive monthly salary based on EU COFUND standards.
Access to world-class research facilities at Lund University and partner institutions.
Mentorship and training for career development in academia, MedTech, and beyond.

Application Process

Documents Required

Applicants must submit:

Curriculum Vitae (Europass format).
Research Plan (3–5 pages) detailing project goals and methods.
Evidence of English proficiency (minimum CEFR B2).
Two reference letters.
Ethical questionnaire and research ethics commitment.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the AMBER Portal: AMBER Application Page.

Deadline: February 24, 2025, 11:59 PM CET.

Why Join Lund University?

Lund University is recognized for its commitment to excellence in research and education. As part of the AMBER program, you will collaborate with leading European institutions, gaining exposure to cutting-edge methods and interdisciplinary approaches. The vibrant academic environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to inclusivity make Lund an ideal destination for ambitious researchers.

For further information, contact: