Postdoctoral fellow in Structural studies of mitochondrial DNA replication

This postdoctoral position is part of a research project funded by a Wallenberg Scholar grant. The postdoctoral researcher will work in an interdisciplinary team with expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry and structural biology. The project aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that govern mitochondrial DNA replication and gene expression, and how defects in these processes contribute to human disease. Subject area Structural studies of mitochondrial DNA replication Subject area description Mitochondrial DNA replication is essential for maintaining mtDNA integrity and stability and thereby for normal mitochondrial function and cellular energy production. Defects in the replication process can lead to mtDNA depletion or deletions and cause mitochondrial disease. Our research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that govern replication of human mtDNA. We combine structural biology, in vitro biochemistry and cell biology to investigate how the mitochondrial DNA replication machinery is organized and regulated. A particular focus is on structural and functional studies of the protein complexes involved in mtDNA replication and on understanding how disease-associated mutations affect these processes. Job assignments In this project, In this project, the postdoctoral researcher will carry out structural and functional studies of protein and protein-DNA complexes involved in mitochondrial DNA replication. A central aim will be to determine structures of replication complexes using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and use these structures to understand how the proteins interact and regulate mtDNA replication at the molecular level. The work will include preparation and biochemical characterization of protein complexes, cryo-EM sample preparation and grid optimization, as well as processing and structural analysis of cryo-EM data. Structural findings will be combined with in vitro biochemical analyses to test mechanistic models and investigate how disease-associated mutations affect the function of the replication machinery. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to drive the project independently while working closely with other members of the research group and our collaborators. Eligibility The eligibility criteria for employing teaching staff are set out in Chapter 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance and in the Appointment Procedure for Teaching Posts at the University of Gothenburg. To be eligible for appointment as a postdoc, the applicant is required to have a doctoral degree, a doctoral degree in art or a foreign degree that is deemed to be equivalent to a doctoral degree. This eligibility requirement must be met before the employment decision is made. In the first instance, those who have completed their degree no more than three years prior to the end of the application period shall be considered. Those who have completed their degree more than three years prior to the end of the application period may also be considered in the first instance if special grounds exist. Special grounds relate to leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, commissions of trust within union organisations, service within the defence services or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignment relevant to the subject area. Assessment criteria We are seeking a highly motivated researcher with a doctoral degree in structural biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related field. Documented experience in structural studies of proteins or macromolecular complexes using cryo-electron microscopy is required. Experience in protein purification and protein biochemistry is also required. Experience in single-particle cryo-EM, including sample preparation, grid optimization, data processing and structural analysis, is particularly meritorious. Experience in structural studies of protein-DNA complexes is a strong advantage. Knowledge of mitochondrial systems and experience in cloning, mutagenesis, protein expression, cell culture and in vitro biochemical analyses are considered merits. Great emphasis will be placed on scientific skills and the ability to independently plan, carry out and analyse research. The work involves close collaboration both within and outside the research group, making good teamwork and communication skills important. The candidate is expected to have strong scientific curiosity and the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team. Excellent spoken and written English is required, as the research group operates in an international environment. Regulations for the evaluation of qualifications for academic positions are given in Chapter 4, Section 3 - 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance. Employment The employment is full time and temporary, two years with the possibility of one year's extension, with placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed. Contact information Please contact: Maria Falkenberg, Professor, e-mail: maria.falkenberg@medkem.gu.se. Unions Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/en/work-at-the-university-of-gothenburg/how-to-apply-for-a-position#collective-agreement-and-union-representatives Application Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline. The application should contain: - A cover letter giving a brief description of previous research experience, and a motivation to why you are applying - A CV including a list of publications - Contact details of two references - Proof of completed PhD Applications must be received by: 2026-10-02. Information for International Applicants Choosing a career in a foreign country is a big step. Thus, to give you