Project assistant in infection biology, 12 months

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

The Department of Molecularbiology at Umeå University, Sweden, invites applicants for a position as project assistant in infection biology at the Aramburu Lab for a temporary full time position for 12 months. The position is expected to start in 1st of October, 2025 or according to agreement. 

We aim to discover and study the function of new proteins involved in innate immune processes against pathogens. We will use a combination of computational and experimental approaches. The position is aimed at a candidate with experience in wet lab and in bioinformatic analysis. We offer ample opportunities for professional development and specialization across various areas of work, in alignment with the project objectives.

You will provide support in both experimental and computational work within the framework of ongoing research projects.

As project assistant you will work under supervision with:

• Work and genetic engineer different cell lines.
• Set up diverse functional assays using innate immune cells and flow cytometry and microscopy readouts.
• Manage the labs’ tissue culture space.
• Use high computing services to perform bioinformatic analysis.

You must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University Bachelor degree (180 ECTS) in biological science (or equivalent fields) at the time of the recruitment. A University degree equivalent to a European University Master Degree (240ETCS) in the same subject is a strong merit.

We seek highly motivated candidates with documented experience in different experimental wet lab and computational approaches and Lenti/Retrovirus generation, immortalization of primary cells, the HoxB8 immortalized myeloid system, flow cytometry, sequencing and proteomic data analysis and working with high computing servers.

Candidates must be fluent in spoken and written English. Since the project will be of collaborative nature, candidates are expected to function in a team and therefore have a good ability to co-operate. Excellent communication skills are required for interacting effectively with colleagues and peers, including colleagues from complementary research fields. Good initiative ability and experience in applying for research funding is a requirement.  

As an employee with us, you contribute to fostering an inclusive culture and a positive work
environment. This involves communicating effectively across differences, demonstrating a collaborative spirit and the ability to work well with others. You maintain openness and a welcoming attitude, showing respect, compassion, and empathy. You engage with and support colleagues from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and promote a healthy work-life balance for both yourself and others.

The application must be written in Swedish or English (preferably). The application must be made via our e-recruitment system Varbi and must be received latest 28 July, 2025.  The application must include: 

• A personal cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position, how you can contribute to the project (no more than 1 A4 pages). 
• A curriculum vitae that documents education and past and previous employments.
• Names and contact details with e-mail addresses of two or three academic references. 
• Other relevant documentation you wish to include in support of your application. 

If there are questions, please contact Iker Valle Aramburu, iker.aramburu@umu.se 

We welcome your application!