Postdoctoral researcher in structural bioinformatics and bacteriophage protein evolution

Description of the workplace
The postdoctoral researcher will join the Protein Evolution research group, led by Gemma C. Atkinson, at the Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University. We use comparative genomics, sensitive protein function prediction and structural bioinformatics to investigate the evolution and molecular mechanisms of microbial biological conflict, particularly interactions between bacteria and bacteriophages. Our computational research is closely integrated with experimental work through collaborations in microbiology, biochemistry and structural biology.
Description of the project
Bacteriophages encode many proteins whose functions and interaction partners remain unknown. This project will combine protein structure and complex prediction with comparative genomics and evolutionary analysis to investigate interactions among bacteriophage proteins and between phage proteins and their bacterial hosts. The aim is to uncover previously uncharacterised molecular interactions and understand how protein evolution shapes their functions in phage biology and virus–host interactions. Computational predictions will provide hypotheses for experimental investigation in collaboration with our research partners.
Tasks and responsibilities
You will conduct computational research involving Python programming and high-throughput protein structure prediction using high-performance computing infrastructure. You will work closely with other members of the research team and external collaborators. The position offers opportunities to develop your independence as a researcher and broaden your scientific expertise. You may also have opportunities to contribute to teaching and gain experience in supervising Master’s students.
Qualifications
Requirements for the position are:
You have a doctoral degree or equivalent foreign degree in bioinformatics, molecular biology, microbiology or a related discipline. The doctoral degree must have been obtained no later than the date on which the appointment decision is made.
You have the ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
You have strong programming skills
You have in-depth knowledge of bacteriophage molecular biology.
You have extensive experience in protein structure prediction and its application to biological research.
Your bacteriophage-related research has been published in reputable journals.
Meritorious for the position are:
Applicants who graduated no more than three years before the closing date for applications.
You have experience in predicting the functions of uncharacterised proteins by integrating sequence, structural and genomic context information.
You have experience in interdisciplinary research collaborations.
You have made open source bioinformatics tools.
You have teaching ability.
The assessment of applicants will primarily be based on their scientific merits and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on scientific ability within the subject area.
We offer
We offer a multidisciplinary research environment where bioinformatics, microbiology, biochemistry and structural biology come together to investigate protein function and evolution. You will work closely with computational and experimental researchers, with access to high-performance computing resources. The position offers opportunities to develop your own research ideas, build international collaborations and gain experience in teaching and supervision.
Lund University has generous support for parental leave and favourable offers for training and wellness and an occupational pension. Read more about being employed at Lund University on the university’s website,
Work with us
.
About the employment
The position is a fixed-term position for two years, 100% with a start date of 2027-02-01 or as agreed. Employment at Lund University is based in Sweden and You will be based at the Biomedical Centre (BMC) in Lund and you are expected to be able to perform your work on site in Lund.
The position is limited to a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, in accordance with the
collective agreement
on fixed-term employment as a postdoctoral researcher (Arbetsgivarverket). A position as a postdoctoral researcher is intended as an initial step in your career and as an opportunity to further deepen and broaden your research expertise
How to apply
You apply for the position via the university's recruitment system. The application should include a personal letter explaining why you are interested in the position and how the position matches your qualifications. The application should also include copies of degree certificates and a CV that includes publications, links to code such as on GitHub, and contact details of two referees.
More information regarding the Faculty of Medicine