Postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Paediatrics

Description of the workplace
The work will primarily be conducted at the Biomedical Center  in Lund. The research group, the Pediatric Rheumatology Research Center, focuses on clinical and preclinical projects in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The projects associated with this position are primarily aimed at laboratory research in immunology related to JIA. The main focus will be on investigating how immunological mechanisms and cells contribute to disease and arthritis development. The work will include handling of patient samples. The postdoctoral position is part of the WCMM IGNITE postdoc program (https://www.wcmm.lu.se/ignite-postdoc-fellow-program), and the selected candidate is expected to participate in its activities.
The research group consists of the principal investigator, PhD students, three postdoctoral researchers, biomedical analysts, and clinical research assistants/nurses. We strive for a close and positive working environment, and the group holds at least one weekly meeting to discuss ongoing projects. The research is conducted in close collaboration with adult rheumatology and infectious medicine.
Co-supervisors for the project will be Professor Bengtsson at the Division of Rheumatology and Associate Professor Nordenfelt at the Division of Infectious Medicine.

Within the research group, we value a good work environment based on respect and care in our relationships with each other and strive for a workplace that is perceived as stimulating and developing for all employees. 

We offer
Lund University is a government agency, which means you are entitled to specific benefits, generous vacation time, and a favorable occupational pension. Read more on the university’s website about working at Lund University: Work with us.

Duties and responsibilities
At Lund University, a postdoctoral position is intended to provide opportunities for scientific and educational qualifications. The primary focus is on research merit, but some academic teaching may also be included.

The applicant will participate in and independently conduct laboratory research projects in immunology related to JIA. The work includes investigating immunological mechanisms, writing grant applications and reports, as well as supervising students. The applicant is expected to take responsibility for leading and carrying out projects and to contribute to constructive discussions within the research group.

Eligibility
To be eligible for a postdoctoral position, the applicant must have completed a doctoral degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a PhD. This qualification requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made, and proof of meeting the requirement must be submitted by that time. Priority is given to those who have obtained their doctoral degree no more than three (3) years ago. If there are special circumstances, the degree may have been awarded earlier. Special circumstances refer to leave due to illness, parental leave, clinical service, union commitments, or similar reasons.

Assessment criteria
At Lund University, a postdoctoral position is intended to provide opportunities for scientific and educational qualifications. Priority is given to research qualifications, but academic teaching may also be part of the duties. In the assessment of applicants, primary consideration will be given to scientific competence within the subject area.

Other qualifications
Requirements for the position:

• A doctoral degree in medicine/medical sciences or equivalent.
• Research experience in juvenile idiopathic arthritis or related topics, documented through publications.
• Experience in research on rheumatic, autoimmune, or autoinflammatory diseases, documented through publications.

Personal qualities:

• Creative thinking and the ability to design projects.
• A positive attitude and a driven personality.

Merits:

• A doctoral degree in pediatric rheumatology.
• Strong collaboration skills and ability to work in a team.
• Ability to plan and organize your own work.

Terms of employment
The position is a full-time fixed-term employment for two years, starting on 1 September 2025 or as agreed. Employment at Lund University is carried out in Sweden, and you are therefore expected to perform your work on site in Lund.

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

Application instructions
The application should include a personal letter describing your interest in the project, how you meet the requested qualifications (including previous independent projects and technical skills), as well as your research interests and future career plans.
CV – including names and contact details of two former supervisors.
Complete list of publications (can be included in the CV).
Copy of degree certificate (PhD diploma or equivalent).

Warmly welcome with your application!