Research Engineer, single-cell biology

Uppsala University

Application deadline

October 8, 2021



Research Engineer, single-cell biology

Uppsala University, Department of Medical Sciences

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a long-term difference in society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has over 45,000 students, more than 7,000 employees and a turnover of around SEK 7 billion.

The Molecular Precision Medicine research group (http://molmed.medsci.uu.se) located at the Department of Medical Sciences studies acute childhood leukemia using large-scale omics methods. Through close collaboration with clinical researchers at the University Hospital in Uppsala, the group has access to unique sample collections and clinical detailed information. The research group also works in close collaboration with the SNP&SEQ Technology Platform, which is part of the National Genomics Infrastructure at SciLifeLab (www.ngisweden.se).

The Molecular Precision Medicine research group is looking for a research engineer to join the group, focusing on method development and implementation of library preparation protocols for single-cell RNA and DNA sequencing. The position is a unique and exciting opportunity to work in the fields of precision medicine and single-cell genomics. The research group offers well-equipped facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and an advanced research environment.

Job Description: The position is located in the Molecular Precision Medicine research group at the Biomedical Center (BMC). Your main task as research engineer will be to carry out molecular biological laboratory work in the research group. This work includes all steps in the laboratory processes, from project planning, handling and quality control of cells, to library preparation for RNA and/or DNA sequencing of individual cells. As the research group works in close connection with the SNP&SEQ platform, tasks within large-scale genome sequencing at the platform, such as starting runs on modern sequence instruments, may be included. Your tasks may also include handling, maintenance of, and (if necessary) troubleshooting of protocols and instruments used in the group, as well as responsibility for processing clinical samples.

The ideal applicant would be able to plan and carry out experiments independently, as well as under supervision. The daily work may also include practical responsibilities for maintaining the laboratory, such as by ordering reagents and other laboratory materials and organizing the biological samples that come into the research group. The laboratory work will vary depending on the projects that are relevant at the moment. Some of the tasks may require work with computers (sample databases, spreadsheets, etc).

Qualification requirements: A university or college degree (at least MSc) with a focus on biotechnology, chemical engineering, cellular or molecular biology, molecular medicine, molecular genetics, or equivalent.

Specific requirements include:

  • Practical experience of laboratory work involving molecular biological methods
  • Good theoretical understanding of molecular biological methods
  • Experience with DNA or RNA sequencing
  • Experience with sample/cell handling
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills

We are looking for a person with a high degree of self-motivation, attention to detail, sense of responsibility, and ability to work both independently and in a team. Emphasis will be put on personal qualities such as a positive attitude and ability to work as part of the research group.

Meriting skills:

  • Experience with single-cell DNA or RNA sequencing
  • Experience in the fields of cancer, genomics or hematological research
  • Method development, for example with library preparation for next generation sequence technologies
  • Experience in fluorescence-assisted cell sorting (FACS)
  • Bioinformatics analysis of NGS data
  • Experience in computer programming in Python or R
  • Good verbal and written Swedish communication skills.

Salary: based on individual merits

Starting date: As soon as possible unless otherwise agreed

Type of employment: 2 years fixed-term employment with the possibility of extension

Extent of employment: 100%

For further information about the position please contact: Dr Jessica Nordlund (jessica.nordlund@medsci.uu.se ), research group leader of the Molecular Precision Medicine research group and Facility Director of the SNP&SEQ Technology Platform within NGI/SciLifeLab.

Please submit your application by 8 October, 2021, UFV-PA 2021/3435.

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services.

Submit your application through Uppsala University’s recruitment system.

Last updated: 2021-09-17

Content Responsible: David Gotthold(david.gotthold@scilifelab.se)