Doctoral student in molecular biology, in data-driven epidemiology

The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University is seeking a doctoral student in molecular biology, linked to the national DDLS doctoral school in data-driven epidemiology and infection biology.
The life sciences of the future are data-driven. Would you like to be part of this change? If so, you are welcome to apply to this unique programme, starting in January, 2027, or by agreement. Apply by 2026-11-19.
Read the full advertisement here: https://umu.varbi.com/what:job/jobID:979252/
Qualifications
Applicants must have a university degree equivalent to a European master’s degree or have completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 must be at advanced level.
To meet the general eligibility requirements, applicants must have qualifications equivalent to either a degree at advanced level (second cycle), completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 must be at advanced level, or have otherwise acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in or outside Sweden. The Faculty Board may, in an individual case, grant an exemption from the general eligibility requirements if there are special grounds. (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 7, Section 39).
To meet the specific eligibility requirements for doctoral studies in molecular biology, applicants must have completed higher education studies comprising at least 90 higher education credits in a relevant subject area.
The prior knowledge requirements above are also considered to be met by applicants who have otherwise acquired substantially equivalent knowledge.
You must be able to communicate well in English, both spoken and written.
Requirements
Background in computer science or equivalent.
Experience with a statically typed programming language
Knowledge of algorithm design and common data structures

Desirable qualifications
Experience with Rust
Experience in bioinformatics (particularly de novo assembly, single-cell analysis and microbial bioinformatics)
Experience in web development and dynamic websites
Basic knowledge of mathematics (e.g. linear algebra, probability theory, statistics, stochastic processes)
Experience developing in larger projects

Desirable to some extent
Experience with R and Python
Experience in machine learning
Knowledge of biology

Although we do not expect applicants to already have knowledge of biology, they are expected to acquire sufficient knowledge during their doctoral studies to communicate effectively with others and formulate solutions to bioinformatics problems in terms of algorithms.
The doctoral education will be tailored to the student’s needs.
You should be highly motivated and able to work productively both in a team and independently. Excellent collaboration and communication skills are required to interact effectively with both senior colleagues and other researchers. Great importance will be placed on personal suitability.
As an employee, you contribute to creating an inclusive culture and a positive working environment. This means communicating effectively across differences, demonstrating a willingness to collaborate and the ability to work well with others. You have an open and welcoming approach and show respect, care and empathy. You engage with and support colleagues from different backgrounds and perspectives, and promote a good work-life balance, both for yourself and others.
Assessment criteria
The assessment of applicants’ ability to benefit from the education will primarily be based on:
Knowledge and skills relevant to doctoral studies in the field
Ability to formulate and solve scientific problems
Ability to communicate in English, both in writing and orally
Other experience relevant to doctoral studies, such as professional experience
Good collaboration skills, initiative and the ability to work independently are considered desirable.

A selection will be made among eligible applicants based on their qualifications and their ability to benefit from doctoral studies. Once a suitable candidate has been selected, the admission process for doctoral studies will begin. The decision on admission is made by the Head of Department.
About the position
The position is intended to lead to a doctoral degree and is for a fixed term of four years of full-time work. If part-time teaching (maximum 20%) can be offered, the employment period will be extended. Salary will be set according to the established salary scale for doctoral student positions. Under the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 12, Section 2), the employment decision cannot be appealed.
Application
Apply through our recruitment system by 2026-11-19. A complete application must include the following documents, written in English or Swedish:
• A CV with information about education, a list of previous and current positions, and a list of publications.
• Copies of degree certificates
• A cover letter describing research experience and interests, and motivation for applying for doctoral studies.
• Contact details for two - three referees.
For questions about the position, contact: johan.henriksson@umu.se or laura.carroll@umu.se
More about us
For more information, visit the Department of Molecular Biology, DDLS Research school - SciLifeLab, UCMR - Umeå Centre for Microbial Research
Our research groups are presented at What we do, Henriksson Lab, The CompMicroLab @ UmU,
We look forward to receiving your application!
Umeå University aims to offer an equal and equitable environment where open conversations between people with different backgrounds and perspectives form the basis for learning, creativity and development. We therefore welcome applicants with different backgrounds and experiences.
To staffing and recruitment companies and salespeople: We kindly but firmly ask you not to contact us directly regarding staffing and recruitment services or the sale of additional job advertisements.

Open to all
We focus on your skills, not your other circumstances. We are open to adapting the role or workplace to meet your needs.