Approximately 50% of the cells in the human body are of microbial origin. By combining clinical materials and gnotobiotic animal models, we have shown that the gut microbiota affects our physiology and metabolism. Our working hypothesis is that several of the microbiota’s effects on our physiology are mediated via metabolites that the bacteria produce. We are now recruiting a researcher to finish a project investigating how gut bacteria affects production of serotonin and its effects on the enteric nervous system. 

Duties 

Characterize different bacteria’s capacity to produce bioactive metabolites in vitro by culturing them alone or in consortia with other bacteria. Determine the amounts of produced metabolites by mass-spectrophotometry. Colonize germ-free mice with bacteria to evaluate effects on the enteric nervous system and the mouse physiology. In order to investigate signaling mechanisms genetically modified mice will be used. 

Qualifications 

PhD in microbiota research is a requirement. Experience of bacterial culturing and using germ-free mice are strong merits. Knowledge in mass spectrometry, evaluation of the enteric nervous system’s development, and metabolic phenotyping of genetically modified mice are merits. It is essential that the applicant can interact with other researchers and clinicians within a greater team. Good knowledge in English, both spoken and written, is a requirement for the position. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability such as being able to take own initiatives and being flexible. 

Employment 

Type of employment: Fixed-term employment, 9 months
Extent: 100 %
Location: Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg
First day of employment: As soon as possible 

Contact information for the post 

Fredrik Bäckhed
Professor
+46(0)31-3427833
Fredrik@wlab.gu.se

Malin Levin
Head of Department
+46(0)708–416264
Malin.Levin@wlab.gu.se 

Unions 

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande  

Application 

To apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to create an account in our recruitment system. 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. 

Please enclose PhD certificate with the application.

Applications must be received by: 2024-03-04

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.