Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology
The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. Research at IMBIM) broadly spans the areas of biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, tumour biology, comparative genetics, functional genomics, immunology, bacteriology and virology. The research is essentially basic, but with relevance and application in health and disease in both animals and humans. More info: Research – Uppsala University
Project description and duties
We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the research group of Matthew Webster at IMBIM, Uppsala University, to investigate the role of somatic mutations in ageing using insect model systems. The position is available for two years with possibility for extension.
Mutations in somatic cells may be important drivers of ageing. This predicts a relationship between somatic mutation rates and longevity in multicellular organisms. Social insects represent promising models to investigate this relationship, due to the existence of castes that differ greatly in longevity despite sharing the same genome. Other promising model systems are represented by experimental lines of insects that have evolved large differences in longevity.
In this project, we aim to address the role of somatic mutations in ageing by measuring somatic mutation rates in honeybee castes and experimental evolution lines of seed beetles. Quantifying somatic mutations on a genome scale with high fidelity is experimentally challenging and we are using specially-developed methods for library prep for high-throughput sequencing to achieve this. The research involves next-generation sequence library preparation in the lab and bioinformatic/statistical analyses of next-generation sequence data.
The project will be conducted in collaboration with Prof. Göran Arnqvist (Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala University) and Dr. Anja Mezger (Head of Applications Development, National Genomics Infrastructure, SciLifeLab, Stockholm).
Additionally, there may be a minor involvement in departmental tasks, such as teaching.
Other research in Matthew Webster’s group is focused on evolutionary genomics and population genomics, primarily in bees, addressing questions including the genetic basis of local adaptation and species divergence, and the evolution of mutation and recombination rates. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to be involved in these projects. We benefit from collaboration with the groups of Profs. Kerstin Lindblad-Toh and Leif Andersson in the same department and with the genome sequencing platform at SciLifeLab. Uppsala University is the oldest in Scandinavia and the city of Uppsala is a vibrant college town with beautiful surroundings conveniently situated 40 minutes by train from Stockholm.
Qualifications and formal requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must hold a Ph.D. degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree in a relevant field. The degree must be completed no later than the time the employment decision is made. The doctoral degree should preferentially have been completed no more than three years ago. When calculating the three-year time frame, the starting point is the last date of application. If there are special reasons, such a degree may have been completed earlier. Special reasons may refer to leave due to illness, parental leave or positions of trust within trade unions.
Candidates must be skilled in sequencing library preparation and bioinformatics and statistics, with experience in analysis of next-gen sequencing data and an interest in evolutionary genetics. Excellent communication skills, a high level of motivation and good spoken and written English is required. The applicant should be capable of working both independently and as part of a team, with problem-solving skills and an openness to learning new methods.
Assessment criteria
When selecting among eligible applicants, special emphasis will be placed on scientific proficiency. In this recruitment, the university will primarily consider those who, after an overall assessment of documented qualifications, competence and skills, are deemed to have the best qualities to carry out and develop current research tasks and contribute to a positive development of the activities.
About the position
The position is fixed-term for two years according to the central collective agreement, with the possibility of extension. The position is full-time. Starting date by agreement. Location: Uppsala, Sweden.
Information about the position is provided by: Professor Matthew Webster, matthew.webster@imbim.uu.se
Welcome with your application no later than December 19, 2025. UFV-PA 2025/3462
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