Postdoc in Molecular Microbiology and Genetics

Om jobbet

Join us at the Division of Chemical Biology, Department of Life Sciences, and help advance knowledge in the field of microbial molecular biology.

About us

The Department of Life Sciences conducts research, innovation, and education to enable a biobased society and improve human health. We explore how biological systems, and innovative technologies can be used to convert biomass into valuable products. We use advanced computational technologies to discover how biomolecules and organisms function and interact. We pioneer new methods for prediction, prevention, diagnostics and treatment of diseases.

In the Division of Chemical Biology, we combine and develop protein engineering, synthetic chemistry, nucleic acid technology, and state-of-the-art biophysical methods to address cutting-edge questions in biology and meet medical challenges.

About the research project

In this research project, we are looking into microbial defense strategies against external stress, in particular antibiotics and other antimicrobials. We are investigating microbial stress responses that help bacteria and fungi to adapt to and overcome cell envelope stress and examine whether these defense systems could be exploited as accessory antimicrobial targets. The focus lies on membrane-associated proteins such as transmembrane channels, transporters, and stress signaling systems. The project requires thorough knowledge of bacterial cell biology and molecular genetics as well as hands-on experience with cloning, live-cell fluorescence microscopy, image analysis, and sample preparation for sequencing and multi-omics analyses. The main model organism will be Bacillus subtilis, but other bacteria as well as fungal species including pathogenic microorganisms will be used as well.

Who we are looking for

The following requirements are mandatory:

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree. This eligibility requirement must be met no later than the time the employment decision is made

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

• Experience in bacterial cell biology, live cell fluorescence imaging including image analysis, molecular genetics including hands-on cloning experience, and sample preparation for sequencing and multi-omics analyses.

• Personal competences in accordance with the requirements profile including excellent collaboration, communication, and social skills, emerging leadership skills appropriate to postdoctoral level, a high attention to detail, and a high level of self-motivation and independent work organization skills.

You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.

The following experience will strengthen your application:

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline

• A scientific mindset and the ability to semi-independently perform hypothesis-driven basic research projects with high accuracy and attention to detail, in particular with respect to study design and appropriate controls.

• Experience in working with Bacillus subtilis including cloning and strain construction, strong bioinformatics skills, and a proven track record of molecular and cell biology studies, preferably documented by publications and/or thesis work in this area.

• Experience with antibiotic research, single-molecule imaging techniques, and methods for nucleic acid analysis are an additional merit.

What you will do

• Perform research on bacterial defense mechanisms and their importance under stress. This includes advanced bioinformatics, molecular cloning, strain construction, and phenotypic analysis using fluorescence live cell imaging, fluorescence spectroscopy, reporter assays, omics analyses, and biochemical characterization.

• Draft manuscripts, prepare and give research and outreach presentations, assist with coordinating internal and external collaborations on the research theme.

• (Co-)supervise master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent

• Possibility to engage in teaching at undergraduate/master's level

The position is meritorious for future roles in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Contract terms

The position is a temporary full-time employment for two years with the possibility of a one-year extension.

The position requires physical presence throughout the entire employment. A valid residence permit must be presented by the start date, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn.

What we offer

• As a postdoc at Chalmers, you are an employee and enjoy all employee benefits. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.

• A dynamic and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg.

• Read more about Sweden's generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.

Chalmers is dedicated to improving gender balance and actively works with equality projects, such as the GENIE Initiative for gender equality and excellence. We celebrate diversity and consider equality and inclusion as fundamental aspects of all our activities.

If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.

Application procedure

Use the website at www.chalmers.se to reach the application form.

Deadline 2026-02-09

For questions please contact:

Michaela Wenzel, Ass. Prof

Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society.

The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!