Postdoctoral Researcher in Chromatin Dynamics at Extreme Desiccation Tolerance

Sveriges Lantbruksuniversitet · Vollzeit

Uppsala, Schweden

Department of Plant Biology About the Position We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our research group at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala to investigate how plant cells reorganize their cell nuclei and gene regulatory systems to survive extreme environmental conditions. Certain organisms can survive the loss of nearly all cellular water by entering a state of suspended animation, known as anhydrobiosis. Orthodox plant seeds and so-called resurrection plants—plants with extreme desiccation tolerance—are remarkable examples: differentiated vegetative cells can tolerate severe drying and subsequently resume normal growth after rehydration. How a differentiated cell can undergo such an extreme physiological transition while preserving genome integrity, cellular identity, and the ability to reactivate gene expression remains not fully understood. The project will investigate changes in chromatin and transcription in connection with the transition to the desiccated state and recovery from it, using plants with extreme desiccation tolerance and possibly complementary plant systems. We are particularly interested in understanding whether desiccation is accompanied by the establishment of a specialized and reversible chromatin state, how this state contributes to protecting the genome and halting transcription, and how normal organization of the cell nucleus and normal gene expression are restored after rehydration. This position is affiliated with the research group led by Dr Stefanie Rosa at the Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala. Our group studies how the organization and dynamics of chromatin affect the regulation and stability of plant genomes (https://www.slu.se/en/profilepages/r/stefanie-rosa/). The project offers great freedom to develop a new research direction at the intersection of chromatin biology, transcription, cell biology, and extreme stress tolerance. The successful candidate will have access to advanced microscopy infrastructure at Uppsala BioCenter and work in a collaborative research environment encompassing plant cell biology, genetics, genomics, and developmental biology. Your Background We are seeking a creative and highly motivated researcher with a PhD in plant biology, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, genomics, or a related field. Previous experience with molecular biological methods, cell biology, and plant developmental biology is advantageous. Strong ability to communicate orally and in writing in English is required. You should also have the ability to conduct independent research, take initiative, formulate relevant scientific questions, and collaborate with other researchers. The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we are primarily seeking individuals who completed their PhD no more than three years ago. If there are special circumstances, the PhD may have been completed earlier. Special circumstances include leave due to illness, parental leave, positions of trust within trade union organizations, military service, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical practice or practice/positions relevant to the field. About Us The Department's research is primarily focused on plants, but other organisms such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, insects, yeast cells, and even human cells are also studied. Our main research areas include interactions between plants and microorganisms and other forms of stress; biotechnology and metabolic engineering; plant growth and development; regulation of gene expression; population genetics, genome analysis, and development of plant breeding systems. The organisms used include model organisms such as Arabidopsis thaliana, Physcomitrella, tobacco, and yeast, as well as crops such as rapeseed, short-rotation willow (Salix), potato, barley, rye, wheat, and cassava. The Department is responsible for basic and advanced courses in general and molecular genetics, genetic engineering, cell biology, plant physiology, gene expression, plant breeding, plant biochemistry, and biotechnology, as well as molecular interactions between plants and pathogens. Additionally, the Department participates in several other biology courses together with other departments. The courses are part of master's programs in biotechnology and natural resources and in educational programs for students in agronomy and landscape architecture, but most courses are also open to external students. Link to the Department: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/vaxtbiologi-skogsgenetik/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21086656031&gclid=Cj0KCQjw79nUBhCgARIsADSHka20iV0H7QlBK34j0DkJW5t45CE5ipbpdxMtH4AYC0FW4I9PNKBAMZ8aAsNMEALw_wcB. Learn more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ Location: Uppsala. Employment Type: Fixed-term position for 24 months, with possible extension. Full-time Position: 100%. Start Date: By agreement. Application: Welcome to submit your application by September 30, 2026. Submit your application by clicking the button below. The following documents must be attached to your application: Your application should include (1) a cover letter describing your research interests and relevant experience, (2) a CV with a complete list of publications, and (3) contact information for two to three referees. Trade Union Representatives: https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/ Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in development for sustainable life, grounded in science and education. Through our focus on interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main offices are in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations also take place at research stations, experimental farms, and educational centers throughout the country. SLU has over 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over 4.5 billion SEK. The University is investing in attractive environments on its campus areas. We work toward a gender-equal and inclusive work environment where open dialogue between people with different experiences forms the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.