PhD in Chemistry (biochemistry of proteases), Sweden (2015)

Project Description – Proteases are important enzymes in all living cells, by degrading other proteins they help us to digest our food, but within the cell they also are involved in regulating other enzymes or removing unwanted or malfunctioning proteins. In this project we are combining physiological, molecular biological and biochemical methods to understand the function of plant proteases located in the chloroplast. Model organism is the annual plant Arabidopsis thaliana. A key feature of the project is the use of a broad range of modern techniques, even in collaboration with other international laboratories.

Admission requirements / Requirements from the candidates

• The general admission requirements for third-cycle study programmes are a second-cycle degree and completed courses carrying at least 240 higher (ECTS) education credits, at least 60 of which were awarded in the second-cycle, or have an equivalent education from abroad or equivalent qualifications.
• The specific entry requirements for third-cycle studies in chemistry are studies in chemistry, or some other subject deemed to be directly relevant for the specialisation in question, comprising at least 90 higher education credits, including one or more second-cycle courses carrying at least 15 credits, or equivalent qualifications.
• Detailed knowledge in the field of biochemistry is required. It is an advantage if you have broad knowledge and experience in relevant fields, e.g. molecular biology. A special merit is being experienced in working within plant research, especially with Arabidopsis thaliana.
• Your creativity, curiosity and the ability to work independent as well as in a group are important properties, you will exchange and interact with researchers of other subjects and other parts of the world. Fluency in English reading, writing and speaking therefore is required.

Terms of employment
The position is aimed for PhD studies and research during four years, leading to a PhD exam. The doctoral student position is mainly devoted to postgraduate studies (at least 80% of the time), but may include up to 20% departmental service (usually teaching). If so, the total time of the position is extended accordingly (up to maximum five years). The employment will start as soon as possible, or as otherwise agreed.

Application procedure –
The application should be written in English or Swedish and contain a personal letter describing your research interests and why you are applying to this position.

Further the letter should contain your

• contact details,
• copies of your academic grades and relevant documentation,
• a CV,
• copies of your master thesis,
• relevant publications if you already published.
• Contact information of at three references, familiar with your qualifications, should be provided.

Documents sent electronically should be in MS Word or PDF format.

You apply through our recruitment system. Log on to the system and apply via the button on the web page.Your complete application, marked with reference number AN 2.2.1-1217-15 must be received January 20, 2016 at the latest.

Information
For further information, contact Professor Christiane Funk, tel: +46(0)90-7867633, e-mail:christiane.funk@umu.se

Today there are about 200 employees at the Department of Chemistry (www.chemistry.umu.se), which offers a stimulating educational and research environment. We educate for Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees that are attractive education for both industry and for academic careers.

Deadline: 2016-01-20