Postdoctoral research fellow with a focus on the molecular mechanisms of bacteriophage-host interactions

Description of the Workplace

In the Atkinson lab we are interested in making discoveries about protein function and structure, with a focus on bacterial immune system components that protect against bacteriophages and other mobile genetic elements. We work mainly with bioinformatic methods, developing our own tools and taking advantage of the wealth of available genome and predicted proteome sequences. The Atkinson lab is based in the Faculty of Medicine of Lund University, in the Department of Experimental Medical Sciences (EMV) and affiliated with the Lund University Virus Centre (LUVC). You can read more about our group on our lab website here: https://atkinson-lab.com/, the department here: https://www.medicine.lu.se/faculty-medicine-lund-university/departments/department-experimental-medical-science, and LUVC here: https://www.virology.lu.se/. 

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our group at the Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University.

Project Description

As a postdoc in the Atkinson lab you will work on the identification and characterization of bacterial immune systems and host manipulation factors of phages. The project may involve computational analyses, experimental approaches, or a combination of both, depending on the candidate's expertise and interests. There will also be opportunities for collaboration on interdisciplinary projects. Our group works closely with the experimental Hauryliuk lab, fostering a highly interactive and collaborative research environment that integrates computational and experimental expertise to tackle key questions in the field.

Work duties and responsibilities

At Lund University, employment as a postdoctoral fellow should provide the opportunity for scientific and pedagogical merit. In the first place, space is given for qualifications in research, but also for certain university pedagogical training. Teaching can also be included in the duties.

• Conduct research in microbial bioinformatics or related fields.
• Develop and implement methodologies for data analysis and interpretation.
• Design and execute experiments or computational studies as appropriate.
• Collaborate with researchers within and outside the group.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present findings at conferences.

Qualifications

Required qualifications for the position:

• Doctoral degree or equivalent degree in Bioinformatics, Microbiology, or a related field. The doctoral degree must have been obtained by the time the appointment decision is made.
• Good capacity to develop and carry out high quality research.
• Teaching ability (experience in training, supervision, or education).
• Experience in computational and/or experimental approaches to studying microbial systems Proficiency in relevant laboratory techniques and/or computational tools.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively (within the team and with external collaborators).
• Profiency in written and spoken English.
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills.
• Self-motivated and able to take initiatives to drive projects forward.

We offer

Lund University is a governmental authority, which means you get special benefits, generous holidays and a favourable occupational pension. 

You will benefit from our broad international network of collaborators, providing opportunities for collaboration with leading experts in the field.

Read more on the university's website about working with us Work for us.

About the employment

The position is a fixed-term empoyment for twoyears, full-time (100%), starting 2025-05-05 or by agreement. 

Employment at Lund University is based in Sweden, and you are expected to carry out your work on-site in Lund.

The employment is limited to a minimum of two years, maximum three years, according to the collective agreement on fixed-term employment as a postdoctoral researcher (the Swedish Employers' Association). A postdoctoral position is intended as an initial step in a career and as an opportunity to further deepen and broaden research expertise.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• A one page cover letter outlining research interests, relevant experience and motivation for applying for this position.
• A short CV including a list of publications.
• A copy of the PhD degree certificate.
• Contact details of at least two references.

We look forward to receiving your application!