Postdoc to the unit of system virology

About the research group
The Systems Virology group is located at the Department of Translational Medicine and is led by Associate Professor Joakim Esbjörnsson. The group uses various experimental and bioinformatics methods to combine experimental and clinical data to explain how viruses establish infection and interact with their host environment. More specifically, various experimental model systems are used to study in detail how virus-host interactions regulate pathogenesis. The research is therefore often based on complex and multifaceted (often longitudinally collected) data that require advanced biostatistics and modeling. In addition, identified key markers and regulators of disease progression, and their potential for new treatments or vaccines, are functionally evaluated in various human cell and tissue model systems. Here you can read more about our exciting research.

Within the research group, we safeguard a good work environment with respect and consideration in our relationships with each other. We strive for a workplace that is perceived as developing and stimulating for all employees, and we constantly work to create conditions for job satisfaction, development and participation for all employees. We care about both physical safety and the psychosocial work environment.

Work duties
At Lund University, a postdoctoral position is intended to provide opportunities for both scientific and pedagogical development. The primary focus is on research merits, but some credit may also be given for higher education teaching and learning training. Teaching duties may also be included in the position.

In the role of postdoctoral researcher, you will have key role in the further development of a human secondary lymphoid tissue explant model based on tonsil tissue that is established in the laboratory. More specifically, the development will entail dissection and microtome slicing of tissue, monitoring and optimisation of tissue culturing, cryostat sectioning, tissue staining, and analysis using ELISA and FACS. Subsequently in the project, the tissue will be infected with viruses and monitored for viral pathogenic effects using various molecular and cell biology techniques (e.g. based on cell culturing, virus titration, qPCR and immunofluorescence). The generated data will be analysed and presented through software such as R and Adobe Illustrator, compiled in reports, and finally by writing manuscripts that are submitted to scientific journals for review and publication. During the employment period, active participation in group meetings and project presentations is also expected (including own presentations).

Qualifications
The position requires:

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree. The doctoral degree must be completed no later than the time the employment decision is made.
• Ability to develop and carry out research of high quality.
• Pedagogical skills. 
• Relevant experience in cell biology, molecular biology (mainly PCR-based techniques), and virology.
• Excellent skills in English speech and writing.
• We are looking for someone who is meticulous, self-driven, and able to plan and carry out their work independently. You should have the ability to work at a fast pace and make agile decisions, based on evidence and with a good balance between pace, quality and risk. Commitment to delivering high quality results, handling challenges and focusing on what creates value. Driven to continuously develop, learn new things, build competence and share knowledge. Collaborative and open in their working methods.

Merits for this position:

• Preference will be given to applicants who have obtained their PhD degree no more than three years prior to the application deadline.
• Knowledge of virus-host interactions and how these relate to disease development.
• Publications in reputable journals on the subject of virology.

The assessment of applicants will primarily be based on their scientific qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on scientific expertise within the subject area. We offer
Lund University is a governmental institution, which means that you will enjoy special benefits, generous annual leave and a very favorable pension. Read more on the university website 

About the position
The position is limited to two years with a preliminary start date of 2026-10-01 or by agreement.
It is a full-time position.

A postdoctoral position is limited to two years with the possibility to extend to three years according to collective agreement for postdocs (The Swedish Agency for Government Employers). A postdoctoral position is intended as an initial step in a scientific career and as an opportunity to develop key competencies as a researcher.

Applying for the position
The application is done via the Lund University recruitment system. The application must contain a personal letter motivating your interest in the position and how it fits your skills and merits. The application must also include your degree certificate, your complete CV and any additional relevant documents that you wish to invoke (grades, contact information for professional references, letters of recommendation etc).