Research Infrastructure Specialist in Cryo-Electron Tomography (Cryo-ET)

Uppsala Universitet · Full-time

Box 256, Uppsala, Sweden

The Department of Cell and Molecular Biology is divided into seven research programs focusing on different areas within cell and molecular biology: computational biology and bioinformatics, microbiology and immunology, molecular biology, molecular biophysics, molecular evolution, molecular systems biology, and structural biology. The scientific foundation of our work lies within biology, but our research overlaps with other areas such as medicine, computer science, mathematics, chemistry, engineering, and physics. The Department has over 200 employees, of which approximately 60 are doctoral students. The position is connected to Uppsala University's Cryo-EM facility, which is an independent institution-wide research infrastructure, led by Dr. Sundborger Lunna and Dr. Marcia and open to researchers at Uppsala University and external users. The position will contribute to the development of cryo-ET at Uppsala University and facilitate its application across a broad spectrum of research projects. The work will among other things support the newly established Centers for Molecular Dynamics and Infection Biology, two interdisciplinary initiatives that bring together expertise and infrastructure for studying the structure, dynamics, and function of biological systems and mechanisms of antimicrobial drug resistance, respectively. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers from various scientific disciplines and contribute expertise in cryo-ET, while also participating in the continued development of methods, workflows, and infrastructure. The position offers excellent opportunities to participate in research collaborations, develop new cryo-ET methods, and, depending on the candidate's interests and expertise, conduct independent research and method development. Responsibilities The primary responsibility of the position is to enable and develop research with cryo-ET at Uppsala University and within the Center for Molecular Dynamics. Responsibilities include: Supporting researchers in planning and performing cryo-ET experiments, from experimental design and sample preparation to data collection, data processing, and interpretation. Developing, implementing, and optimizing workflows for sample preparation, data collection, and data processing within cryo-ET. Supporting and training users in cryo-ET methods as well as associated instrumentation and software. Contributing to the establishment, operation, and continued development of cryo-ET infrastructure and associated workflows at Uppsala University. Collaborating with researchers from various disciplines to identify how cryo-ET can best be used to address their scientific questions. Contributing to method development in areas relevant to cryo-ET as well as structural and cell biology. Establishing and maintaining documentation, protocols, and best practices to ensure robust and reproducible workflows. Participating in research collaborations and, where appropriate, contributing to scientific publications. There is an opportunity to conduct independent research and method development within the framework of the facility's overall scientific goals. Qualifications The applicant must have: A doctoral degree in structural biology, molecular biology, cell biology, biophysics, biochemistry, or another relevant field. Practical experience with cryo-ET, including sample preparation, data collection, and data processing. A strong interest in developing and applying cryo-ET methods to biological research questions. The ability to work independently and take responsibility for the development and maintenance of experimental and computational workflows. Excellent ability to collaborate with researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds. Good communication skills and the ability to explain complex methods and concepts to users with different experience levels. Very good knowledge of English, both spoken and written. Since the position involves extensive contact and collaboration with researchers and users of the facility, particular emphasis will be placed on scientific curiosity, problem-solving ability, service orientation, initiative, and the ability to work constructively in an interdisciplinary environment. Desirable/Meritorious Experience The following experiences are particularly meritorious: Experience with cryo-correlative light and electron microscopy (cryo-CLEM). Experience with subtomogram averaging and/or advanced image analysis workflows within cryo-ET. Experience with commonly used software and computational workflows for cryo-ET. Experience in developing or implementing new methods within cryo-EM/cryo-ET. Experience working in research infrastructure, core facilities, or other research environments with extensive collaborations. Experience training and supporting researchers in advanced microscopy methods. About the Position The employment is permanent (probationary employment may apply). The position is 100%. Start date by agreement. Location: Uppsala. Information about the position is provided by: Anna Sundborger-Lunna, [email protected] or Marco Marcia, [email protected]. In this recruitment, we have replaced the cover letter with questions that you will answer in connection with your application. Your answers will be used as part of the selection process. Welcome to submit your application by October 19, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/2769. Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance in order to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,500 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces. The employment may be subject to security clearance. As a condition for employment during security clearance, the applicant must be approved. We decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance. Applications are received through Uppsala University's recruitment system. Trade union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected], Seko - [email protected], ST (OFR/S) - [email protected]