Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Department of Clinical Microbiology
Institute:
Umea University
Country:
Sweden
Research Field:
immunology, virology, vaccinology
Posted Date:
NA
Deadline:
Mar 18, 2026
Offer Period:
2 Years
Offer Start Date:
early to mid-2026
Postdoc position in mucosal B cell immunology
Project Description:
- The Department of Clinical Microbiology is offering a postdoctoral scholarship within the project of studying mucosal B cell and antibody response. The scholarship is full-time (2 years) with access early to mid 2026 or by agreement.
- The Forsell research group at the Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, is seeking a postdoctoral fellow for a two-year position to join a collaborative research initiative studying mucosal B cell and antibody responses. The position is funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation.
- The mechanisms governing the induction of long-lasting immune memory in mucosal tissues are not fully understood. In this project, the successful candidate will utilize access to several well-characterized longitudinal clinical cohorts to perform repertoire analyses of memory B cells and antibodies from multiple compartments and time points. The overall goal is to determine whether mucosal immune responses are seeded from systemic or local immune compartments, with a particular focus on IgA.
- As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be an integral member of a dynamic and ambitious research group with a strong focus on genetic, molecular, and functional analyses of B cell and antibody responses. The project will include laboratory-based research, extensive data analysis, manuscript preparation for publication, and project coordination in close collaboration with national and international research partners. The position also provides opportunities to gain teaching experience, particularly in immunology and hematology.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- Applicants must have obtained a doctoral degree, or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a doctoral degree, in immunology, virology, vaccinology, or a related field.
- This requirement must be fulfilled no later than the time of the recruitment decision.
- Applicants should have excellent written and spoken English skills, as well as strong knowledge of basic immunological methods.
- Practical experience and methodological expertise in immune repertoire sequencing (VDJ) and/or RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) are highly desirable.
Preferred Qualification:
- Experience with cell sorting using flow cytometry is also considered an advantage.
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- Full-time, two-year tax-free stipend.
Benefits:
Not Available
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- Letter highlighting your qualification and motivation
- CV including publication list
- Copy of PhD certificate, and other relevant exam certificates
- Contact information of 2 references
How to apply:
- The application should be written in English or Swedish, and attached documents should be in Word or PDF format. The application should be registered via Umeå University’s e-recruitment system Varbi.
- Mattias Forsell, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Sweden
mattias.forsell@umu.se
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
The Department of Clinical Microbiology at Umeå University conducts internationally recognized research and education in immunity, host–microbe interactions, and microbial pathogenesis. Research spans both cellular and molecular aspects of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi, as well as immune regulation of these processes. The department comprises approximately 30 active research groups with diverse scientific profiles. The postdoctoral project is part of a larger collaborative and interactive initiative involving Umeå University, Karolinska Institute, the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), and Linköping University.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a postdoctoral position?
Postdoctoral positions are open to candidates who have completed a PhD or will complete their doctoral degree before the start date. Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the funding scheme and host institution.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most postdoctoral positions are open to international applicants. Visa sponsorship and work permit support are usually provided by the host institution, subject to local regulations.
Is prior postdoctoral experience required?
In most cases, prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory. However, candidates with relevant research experience beyond the PhD may be preferred for certain positions.
What is the typical duration of a postdoctoral contract?
Postdoctoral contracts typically range from six months to three years, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability and performance.
Are teaching responsibilities included?
Teaching responsibilities vary by institution and position. Some postdoctoral roles are research-only, while others may include limited teaching or supervision duties.
Can I apply for multiple postdoctoral positions?
Yes. Candidates are encouraged to apply for multiple suitable postdoctoral positions to increase their chances of selection.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.