Postdoctoral position in mass spectrometry-based proteomics with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Description of the workplace

The postdoctoral position is linked to the Clinical Protein Science & Imaging group at the division of Biomedical Engineering, LTH, which works in close collaboration with a research group at the Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine. The focus of the postdoctoral activity is to create induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models and their analysis with multi-omics techniques in order to determine pathogenic cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in various neurological disorders. The primary aim of the research work is to explore the proteomic changes related to Parkinson's disease in patient-specific iPSC-derived brain cells with the support of the recently jointly awarded grant from the Michael J. Fox Foundation. The activities are carried out in our well-equipped laboratories at the Biomedical Center at Lund University.

Subject description

The main focus of the research is the investigation of proteomic alterations in patient-specific iPSC-derived brain cells in different groups of patients with Parkinson's disease. The research work includes development of methods related to sample preparation, data collection and analysis, with particular attention to multi-omics data integration and analysis.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.
The research includes the independent planning and performing of the necessary experiments, cell culturing, operating of  mass spectrometers (MS), as well as full data analysis, reporting, and scientific writing. Supervision of undergraduate and graduate students, supporting other ongoing projects and actively searching for external research funding are also included, as well as administrative tasks related to the position.

Qualification requirements 

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Proficiency in culturing and differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells, including 3D cell cultures.
• Extensive knowledge in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Documented experience in biological mass spectrometry and MS-based proteomics.
• Practical experience in operating and maintaining LC-MS systems.
• Good knowledge in bioinformatics, such as analysis and interpretation of MS-based proteomic data.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Assessment criteria 

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications:

• Ability to communicate.
• Collaborative skills.
• Basic knowledge in establishing, maintaining iPSC and differentiating into neural cells, including 3D cultures.
• Work experience in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Practical experience in sample preparation of biological samples for proteomic analysis.
• Experience in performance evaluation and maintenance of nLC-MS/MS systems.
• Experience in PTM analysis, such as phosphorylation, glycosylation.
• In-depth knowledge and experience in statistical and bioinformatics analysis of proteomic data.
• Experience from programming e.g. in R, Phyton, or equivalent.
• Experience in mentoring students and supervising Master's and Bachelor's thesis projects.

You should be highly motivated to independently pursue the proteomic analysis of human stem cell-based models, including bioinformatic analysis, within an international and interactive research group, as well as support other ongoing projects within the group. 

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. 
Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee: Work at Lund University

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years from February 2024 (or as agreed). The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications are to be submitted via the University’s recruitment system. The application shall be written in English and should include a CV and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.).

We look forward to receiving your application!