PhD Student position in Cellular Structural Biology/Biophysics

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. Research at IMBIM broadly spans the areas of comparative and evolutionary genomics, functional genomics, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, immunology and microbiology. The research is of fundamental nature, but with relevance and application in health and disease in both animals and humans. More info: Research – Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology – Uppsala University

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to join the project Cellular Structural biology/Biophysics”, led by Prof. Katja Petzold, focused on RNA structural dynamics and regulation inside living cells. The PhD student will be located at the Biomedical Centre (BMC), Uppsala, Sweden.

Project description 

RNA molecules are central regulators of cellular function, and their structure and functions are still very little studied. Our lab has shown that RNA function is tied to their ability to adopt multiple structural states and to switch between them. To study these dynamic RNA conformational ensembles in the presence of a more complex, intracellular environment that can interact with each confomer and influence structural switching is currently a main goal in the lab.  

In this project, the PhD student will explore RNA structural equilibria in cells, using a combination of:

• RNA structural probing (SHAPE-MaP / DMS-MaP / RABS)
• Advanced NMR spectroscopy, including in-cell NMR, solution-state relaxation dispersion experiments and solid-state DNP-enhanced MAS NMR
• Computational modelling and quantitative analysis of RNA conformational ensembles
• Biophysical and biochemical methods for studying RNA-protein and RNA-ligand interactions
• Functional assyaing of conformations in different cellular systems (from viral via bactiera to human cells)

Depending on interest and skills, the student may work on one or several biological systems, including regulatory microRNAs, ribosomal RNA elements, or viral RNA motifs. The overall goal is to understand how RNA structures change inside cells, identify what triggers these structural transitions, and define the molecular mechanisms by which RNA dynamics regulate gene expression.

Duties

The main duties of PhD students are to devote themselves to their research studies, which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (not more than 20 % of full time).

Requirements

To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must have

• a Master’s (second-cycle) degree in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, structural biology, or a closely related field, with a strong focus on RNA; or completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or acquired substantially equivalent knowledge documented in some other way
• Documented laboratory experience with biomolecules, nucleic acid biochemistry, or RNA molecular biology
• proficiency in spoken and written English;
• strong ability to conceive, execute, and complete research projects independently
• creativity, problem-solving and good collaborative skills

Additional qualifications

• documented programming and/or advanced data analysis skills (Python, R, MATLAB or similar)
• experience in processing next-generation sequencing data (NGS)
• Experience in structural biology or biophysical techniques (e.g., NMR, spectroscopy, RNA probing, crystallography, cryo-EM, fluorescence)
• Knowledge in machine learning / statistical modelling / bioinformatics pipelines/ handling large datasets
• Strong interest in RNA structure, conformational dynamics, and quantitative modelling

The selection is based on the following criteria

Completion of the above qualifications, grades in relevant courses, suitability of the courses to the research program, previous experience in working and performing research in the wider area that relates to the project described above. An integrated assessment of the applicant is generated in order to employ the best possible candidate that can succeed in the doctoral studies and contribute to a positive development of the research program. Emphasis will be given on personal qualities, including analytical capacity, motivation, creativity, problem-solving, flexibility and collaborative skills.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

About the employment

The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date as agreed. Placement: Uppsala.

For further details, please contact Professor Katja Petzold, katja.petzold@imbim.uu.se.

Application: Please submit your application using the Uppsala University application portal. Your application should include:

• CV (max. 2 pages)
• A cover letter describing yourself, your research interests and skills, and why you want to pursue doctoral studies in RNA structural biology (max. ½ page)
• Your thoughts/reflections of AI/LLM in research and your usage for this application (max. ½ page)
• Master’s thesis (or draft) or other self-produced scientific/technical writing
• Publications (if applicable)
• Copies of your academic transcripts
• Names and contact information (email and phone) for two referees

Please submit your application by February 20, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/318.