Project Assistant in Cell and Virus Mechanics for Antiviral Development and Improved Gene Therapy Vector Production

Description of the workplace

The position is based at BMC (Biomedical Center) in Lund, specifically within the Neurobiology Section at the Department of Experimental Medical Sciences (EMV). The research group conducts experimental studies in cell and virus biomechanics, with a focus on nuclear mechanics and mechanoadaptation in disease models.

The mission of the group is to advance cutting-edge interdisciplinary research at the interface of cell biology, biophysics, and microscopy. The group is part of the Neurobiology Section, which integrates expertise in molecular cell biology, mechanobiology, advanced microscopy, and biotechnology to understand cellular mechanisms in normal function and disease.

The project assistant will be an integrated member of this research environment and will work closely with senior and junior researchers with complementary expertise in microbiology, atomic force microscopy (AFM), fluorescence microscopy, cell biology, and data analysis. The workplace offers modern laboratory facilities and access to advanced infrastructure for cell and molecular biology experiments.

The group is characterized by an open, international, and collaborative working style. We actively promote a positive work environment through clear supervision, regular follow-ups, realistic workload planning, and an inclusive culture that prioritizes knowledge exchange and job satisfaction. The project is also part of a Nordic research collaboration within the HALRIC framework, with close interaction between partner laboratories.

We offer

Lund University is a government agency, which means you receive special benefits, generous vacation, and a favourable occupational pension.

Lund University is a public authority, which means that as an employee you receive special benefits such as generous annual leave, parental leave, and an attractive occupational pension.

In addition, we offer a stimulating and international research environment with access to advanced research infrastructure, including a newly installed BioAFM. We have a flexible working hours agreement that supports a good work–life balance, and a workplace climate characterized by collaboration, clear supervision, and strong opportunities for professional development. Read more on the university’s website about being an employee at Lunds University, Work at Lund University. 

Work duties and areas of responsibility

You will have primary responsibility for conducting experimental studies of nuclear mechanics in cancer cells using atomic force microscopy (AFM) in combination with fluorescence microscopy. The work includes cell culture, preparation of cells and isolated nuclei, AFM-based force and stiffness measurements, and correlative imaging.

You will also contribute to method development and the establishment of a new research line in cancer cell mechanics, including optimization of protocols, documentation of workflows, and analysis of experimental data. The work is carried out in close collaboration with researchers in cell biology, biophysics, and microscopy, and includes regular reporting and presentation of results within the research group.

The position may involve short research visits and exchanges within the framework of Nordic collaboration (HALRIC). The work is primarily laboratory-based and follows standard working hours, with some flexibility depending on experimental needs.

Qualifications

Requirements for the position include:

• You have a completed Master’s degree (MSc) in molecular biology, virology, biophysics, or a related field with a clear experimental focus.
• You have experience in analysing the mechanical properties of cancer cells or virus-infected cells.
• You have practical experience working with herpesvirus-infected cells in a laboratory environment.
• You have experience in analysing DNA replication in cells using TetO/TetR-based marker systems or equivalent reporter-based systems.
• You have experience in cell culture and experimental methods relevant to studies of viral or nuclear cell biology.
• You have a proven ability to work independently in complex experimental projects and to document, analyse, and interpret data in a structured manner.
• You have very good proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

Meritorious for the position:

• It is considered a merit if you have experience in experimental work related to antiviral development, particularly targeting herpesviruses.
• It is considered a merit if you have experience working with viral vectors for gene therapy, such as AAV or lentivirus, including production, characterisation, or quality analysis.
• It is considered a merit if you have experience with biophysical or mechanical measurement methods (e.g. AFM) or correlative experiments combining mechanical measurements with fluorescence microscopy.
• It is considered a merit if you have experience in AI-based or machine-learning-based cell and image analysis.
• It is considered a merit if you have advanced knowledge of nuclear mechanics, chromatin organisation, or nuclear architecture.
• It is considered a merit if you have experience working in interdisciplinary projects at the interface of cell biology, virology, biophysics, and data analysis.
• It is considered a merit if you have previous experience in projects funded by national or international research grants.

Further information

The position is a fixed-term employment for six months 100%, starting on 1 April 2026 or as agreed. 

How to Apply

The position is applied for via Lund University’s recruitment system. The application should include a cover letter describing your interest in the position and how your qualifications and experience match the duties.

The application must also include a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and any other documents you wish to submit, such as academic transcripts, contact details for references, or letters of recommendation.

More information about the Faculty of Medicine