Ref PAR 2023/957

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

At the Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, at the Institute of Medicine, the main research areas are inflammation and inflammatory diseases irrespective of whether they are caused by allergies, infections or are autoimmune diseases. The aim is to investigate the underpinning mechanisms behind the inflammation. Several of our researchers also work as senior consultants at the clinics at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, which is a great advantage especially for translational research. We offer a dynamic, ambitious, and productive environment for a young scientist, and a good platform for a future career in frontline research.

Professor Sören Paludan´s research is focused on understanding how the immune system detects viral infections, and how this leads to protective and pathological immune responses. His work aims to provide new basic knowledge on how the immune system works and interacts with viruses, and how this impacts the pathogenesis of viral infections. The research may lead to better understanding of viral diseases and could have implications for future development of vaccines, antiviral therapeutics, and diagnostic tools.

Subject area 

Infection immunology and pathogenesis of viral CNS infections

Subject area description 

Some viruses can infect the central nervous system and cause disease. This includes herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which in rare cases can cause meningitis. However, the mechanisms underlying susceptibility to HSV-2 meningitis are not well understood. Likewise, the mechanisms driving disease in the CNS are also poorly understood. We have recently identified a novel genetic defect that predisposes to HSV-2 meningitis, and in the present project, we will take advantage of this information to explore the underlying mechanism.

Duties 

As Postdoc in infection immunology your position is primarily research-based but may also involve teaching assignments and supervision. You will be working mainly with mouse models for virus infections, but will also use techniques in stem cell-based cell culture models of human brain cells. The techniques to be used in the project include (but is not limited to) virus quantification methods, PCR, immunohistochemistry, RNA sequencing, and single cell and spatial omics technologies. The project also includes data analysis, and presentation of research results in the form of oral/poster presentations and articles.

Eligibility 

The eligibility criteria for employing teaching staff are set out in Chapter 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance and in the Appointment Procedure for Teaching Posts at the University of Gothenburg. 

To qualify as a postdoctoral researcher the applicant should hold a PhD in a relevant subject. Since postdoctoral constitutes a qualifying appointment for junior researchers, we aim to target those who have a doctoral degree not older than 3 years.

Assessment criteria 

You have academic qualifications preferably within one or more of the following areas immunology, virology, or neuroscience. Previous documented experience with animal models or advanced human cell culture model systems is an advantage. Experience with single cell RNA sequencing, bioinformatics, immunohistochemistry, or other methods relevant for infection immunology research is also seen as an advantage. You shall have solid analytical thinking, creativity, and a visible publication record.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability and personal characteristics including cooperation and initiative, accuracy and flexibility.

Employment 

Type of employment: Fixed-term employment, 24 months Extent: 100 % Location: Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg First day of employment: According to agreement.

Contact information 

Sören Riis Paludan
Professor
+4528992066, soren.riis.paludan@gu.se, srp@biomed.au.dk

Kristina Eriksson
Professor, Deputy Head-of-Department
+46-763-111-494, kristina.eriksson@microbio.gu.se

Unions 

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande 

Application 

Please attach PhD certificate with the application, if the PhD certificate has not yet been issued, it needs to be attached latest at the time when the employment decision is to be made.

Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline.

Applications must be received by: 2023-10-04.

Information for International Applicants 

Choosing a career in a foreign country is a big step. Thus, to give you a general idea of what we and Gothenburg have to offer in terms of benefits and life in general for you and your family/spouse/partner please visit: 

https://www.gu.se/en/about-the-university/welcome-services 
https://www.movetogothenburg.com/ 

Visit the webpage Join us – jobs and career for more information on the Institute of Medicine and what opportunities we have for you. Discover our world-class research and research infrastructure, as well as what the benefits are for you and your family.

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.
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