Research assistant in RNA Dynamics with focus on microRNA

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. IMBIM conducts basic research in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, tumor biology, comparative genetics, functional genomics, immunology, bacteriology, and virology. The department's research is primarily basic in nature, but its applications have a clear connection to, and significance for, health and disease in both animals and humans. A more detailed description is available at Research – Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology – Uppsala University

Project description

The successful candidate will work in a research group at Uppsala University, primarily on a project that requires experience in advanced structural biology and biophysics.

Duties

The project will investigate how molecular motion within microRNAs or ribosomes regulates their function, and how this can ultimately be manipulated using small molecules that could become therapeutics. Investigations will be carried out using advanced NMR experiments and SHAPE on RNA molecules. The successful candidate will produce RNA samples by solid-phase synthesis or in vitro transcription, purify them, and then measure and determine RNA structure and dynamics using NMR, SHAPE, and other biophysical methods.

Qualification requirements

A Master's degree in biochemistry or biophysics. Documented hands-on laboratory experience in structural biology and biophysics, preferred knowledge of NMR or sequencing and experience handling RNA. Excellent proficiency in spoken and written English is required. The candidate must be able to work both independently and collaboratively with other group members. Considerable weight will be given to personal suitability, such as collaborative skills, flexibility, thoroughness, and a strong sense of responsibility.

About the position:

Fixed-term employment for 6 months, full-time. Starting date as soon as possible or by agreement. Place of work: Uppsala.

For further information about the position, please contact Professor Katja Petzold, e-mail: katja.petzold@imbim.uu.se, or saskia.rughoft@kemi.uu.se.

We welcome your application no later than 18 September 2026. UFV-PA 2026/2549