Postdoctoral in structural studies of mitochondrial DNA replication

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 58 000 students and 6800 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

The Institute of Biomedicine is involved in both research and education. In both of these areas, we focus on fundamental knowledge of the living cell – what it consists of, how it works, how its function is directed by the genetic material, and how it interacts with various kinds of micro-organisms. Using this knowledge, we try to elucidate the causes of diseases, and find new ways to diagnose and treat them.

The Institute is composed of the following four departments:

• The Department of Infectious Diseases
• The Department of Microbiology and Immunology
• The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology
• The Department of Laboratory Medicine

At present, the institute has about 360 employees and approximately 450 million SEK in total assets

This postdoctoral position is part of a research project funded by a Wallenberg Scholar grant. The postdoctoral researcher will work in an interdisciplinary team with expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry and structural biology to investigate how replication and gene expression of mitochondrial DNA are regulated, and how disruptions in these processes contribute to human disease.

Subject area 

Structural studies of mitochondrial DNA replication.

 

Subject area description 

Mitochondrial DNA replication is a crucial process for maintaining mtDNA integrity and stability, which is essential for mitochondrial function and cellular energy production. Disruptions in this process can lead to mtDNA deletions or loss of mtDNA, which in turn is associated with various mitochondrial diseases, neurodegenerative conditions, and aging. We combine in vitro biochemistry and cell biology to study the molecular mechanisms that regulate mtDNA replication. A particular focus is on understanding how disease-associated mutations affect this process and developing new therapies to prevent mtDNA deletions and loss of mtDNA.

 

Duties 

In this project, the candidate will carry out structural studies of the protein machinery that governs mitochondrial DNA replication, with a particular focus on how the involved proteins interact at the molecular level. The work will involve the use of cryo electron microscopy in combination with in vitro biochemical analyses to understand how disease-causing mutations affect the replication process, its efficiency and genome stability. The project may also include complementary cell-based methods when needed. More information about the research group and our work can be found at www.falkenberglab.org.

 

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 be eligible for appointment as a postdoc, the applicant is required to have a doctoral degree, a doctoral degree in art or a foreign degree that is deemed to be equivalent to a doctoral degree. This eligibility requirement must be met before the employment decision is made. 

In the first instance, those who have completed their degree no more than three years prior to the end of the application period shall be considered. Those who have completed their degree more than three years prior to the end of the application period may also be considered in the first instance if special grounds exist. Special grounds relate to leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, commissions of trust within union organisations, service within the defence services or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignment relevant to the subject area.  

 

Assessment criteria 

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with documented experience in structural studies of proteins, including cryo electron microscopy. Experience in protein biochemistry is required, while knowledge of mitochondrial systems, cell biology, and experience with cloning, mutagenesis, gene expression, cell culture, and in vitro biochemical analyses are considered merits. Experience in structural analysis of macromolecular complexes and handling of structural data is a strong advantage.

The work involves collaboration both within and outside the research group, making good teamwork skills and strong communication abilities important. The candidate is expected to be enthusiastic, able to plan and carry out research independently, and to demonstrate strong scientific curiosity. Fluency in spoken and written English is required, as we work in an international environment.

Regulations for the evaluation of qualifications for academic positions are given in Chapter 4, Section 3 - 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance.

 

Employment 

The employment is full time and temporary, two years with the possibility of one year's extension, with placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed.

 

Selection process 

Help for applicants.

 

Contact information 

If you have any questions about the position, please contact Maria Falkenberg, Professor, e-mail: maria.falkenberg@medkem.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 

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.  

The application should contain:

• A cover letter giving a brief description of previous research experience, and a motivation to why you are applying
• A CV including a list of publications
• Contact details of two references
• Proof of completed PhD

Applications must be received by: 2026-02-04

 

  

Information for International Applicants 

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