PhD position in Plant Science, Umeå University, Sweden

Summary

The Department of Plant Physiology at Umeå University is offering a fully funded PhD position within the Con-TEki project at the Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC). The project focuses on investigating the role of transposable elements (TEs) as drivers of regulatory innovation in conifers, specifically Norway spruce and Scots pine. The doctoral researcher will bridge large-scale regulatory genomics and experimental molecular biology to validate candidate gene regulatory elements and mechanisms.

PhD position in Plant Science with focus on functional genomics of conifers, Umeå University, Sweden

Designation

• Position: PhD Student / Doctoral Position (100% full-time, temporary position for 4 to 5 years including optional teaching duties)

Quick Overview

Research Area

Plant Science focusing on the functional genomics of transposable elements in conifers.

• Primary Field: Plant Science / Plant Physiology
• Specialization: Functional Genomics, Transposable Elements (TEs), Regulatory Genomics, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics in Conifer Systems (Norway Spruce & Scots Pine)

Location

• Umeå, Sweden (Umeå University)

Eligibility & Qualifications

General Entry Requirements

• Completed a degree at the advanced level (second cycle / Master’s equivalent), OR
• Completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, including at least 60 ECTS credits at the advanced level, OR
• Equivalent knowledge acquired within Sweden or abroad.

Specific Entry Requirements

• At least 90 ECTS in Biology or subjects relevant to the research area (e.g., Chemistry, Physics, or Computer Science/Bioinformatics).
• At least 15 ECTS in a subject directly relevant to the research topic.
• At least 15 ECTS from an individual project course.
• Strong command of written and spoken English.

Required Qualifications

• Practical experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct experimental work in a structured and reproducible manner.
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English.

Meriting Qualifications (Pluses)

• Experience with high-throughput sequencing techniques (e.g., RNA-seq, ATAC-seq).
• Prior experience working with plant material.
• Proficiency with bioinformatics tools, scripting, or data analysis.
• Experience in method development, optimization, reporter assays, transient expression systems, or genome editing.

Job Description & Responsibilities

The selected PhD candidate will be trained and expected to:

• Develop and implement experimental approaches for functional validation of regulatory elements in conifers.
• Perform laboratory molecular biology experiments, including nucleic acid extraction and sequencing library preparation.
• Generate, process, and interpret genome-wide datasets (integrating chromatin accessibility, gene expression, and methylation data).
• Integrate experimental results with computational and bioinformatic analyses.
• Establish reproducible workflows for both experimental and analytical procedures.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• Optionally participate in teaching and departmental service (up to a maximum of 20%).

How to Apply

1. Prepare your application materials in English (preferred) or Swedish:
   • Personal Letter (max 2 pages): Outlining your qualifications and motivation for the position.
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
   • Academic Documentation: Copies of degree certificates, transcripts, and course grades.
   • References: Contact details for 2–3 academic or professional referees.
   • Any additional supporting documents you wish to submit.
2. Submit your application online via the Varbi e-recruitment portal directly on the Umeå University Job Portal Page.

Last Date to Apply

• July 31, 2026

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