Job ID: 123359

Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurodevelopment

Position: Post-doctoral Position

Deadline: 10 September 2025

Contract Length: 2 years

City: Umeå

Country: Sweden

Institution: Umeå University

Department: Medical and Translational Biology

Description:

A 2-year postdoctoral fellowship position in understanding the molecular mechanisms and behavioral consequences of normal and abnormal mouse spinal cord development has become available at Umeå University, Sweden.

We encourage applications from highly motivated individuals with a keen interest in developmental biology and neuroscience. The fellowship is open to anyone who meets the criteria outlined below and provides an excellent training opportunity for a talented and ambitious scientist. The working ‘day to day’ language in the laboratory is English.

 

Description of the project:

The focus of the research is to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the development of the spinal cord and the consequences of abnormal development for animal behaviour using the mouse spinal cord as a model system. You will engage a systematic strategy to identify these mechanisms by generating innovative mouse genetic strains, identifying embryonic defects and the underlying molecular mechanisms and determining the consequences of this abnormal development to function of the mature nervous system– focusing on motor and sensory behaviour. The long-term goal of this work is to generate knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of normal neural development (for example axon guidance) and to link abnormal development with neural function and dysfunction.

 

You will receive training:

The successful candidate will receive training to supplement and strengthen your existing skills and strong research mentorship and for your career development.

 

About the university and department:

The research is carried out in the laboratory of Associate Professor Sara Wilson located at the Department of Medical and Translational Biology (MBT), Umeå University, Sweden (see lab web page). MBT is an interdisciplinary department, which focuses on questions in basic and medical sciences and provides an interactive modern environment with good core facilities. 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.

 

Qualifications – This is how the position is assessed:

You need to have met the following two formal requirements by the time you start (you can apply before they are met e.g. during your PhD).

  1. A doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in an area relevant to the announcement. Everyone is welcome to apply but due to regulations around holding fellowships, preference is to be given to individuals who completed their PhD within the last 3 years.
  2. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required.

 

Of the applicant who meet above formal requirements, the most successful candidate will be selected based on the following merits – although full training will be given:

  • Preference is given to individuals with a background in mouse genetics and handling, developmental biology, neuroscience, molecular and/or cell biology with a keen interest in developmental neuroscience.
  • A doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in one of the following areas: biology, developmental biology, neuroscience, cancer biology, genetics, biotechnology, physiology, anatomy, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics or similar.
  • Experience in some of the following techniques will be viewed favourably although full training will be given: Vertebrate embryo model systems, mouse genetics and handling, generation of new mouse genetic lines, rodent motor circuits or rodent motor behavior analysis. Technical experience with imaging, molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization are also highly valued. Technical experience with embryo electroporation and /or neurite outgrowth/migration assays or other approaches relevant to the project will be positively evaluated.
  • Demonstrated skills/aptitudes/characteristics important for success of the project including a high level of motivation and commitment, good aptitude/skills towards laboratory work and the willingness to learn. The applicant must also be organized, rigorous and be able to work both independently and as part of a team.

 

How to apply:

The application (reference number FS 2.1.6-755-25) process is done  via our e-recruitment system here: https://umustipendie.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:838323/, by the end of 10th September 2025. (this is the only method that applications can be made). The start date is by mutual agreement.

As part of your application, you should upload the following documents (no other documents are needed at this point). Please do not use AI-generated content.  We’re looking for applications that reflect your own experience and perspective.

  • A cover letter (not more than 1.5 A4 pages) where you explain clearly and succinctly your suitability for the position in relation to the qualifications, requirements, and merits in the announcement.
  • Include a short (2 A4 pages) CV and list of publications and manuscripts.
  • Copy of your PhD degree certificate if completed.
  • Contact information for three referees should be included in your application.

 

Informal enquiries can be directed to Associate Professor Sara Wilson (sara.wilson@umu.se). Laboratory webpage

 

We look forward to your application!