Staff Scientist for Electron Microscopy at SciLifeLab

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions, with over 41 500 students and around 4 600 employees. The university offers a diverse range of high-quality courses and world-leading research in several scientific fields, and it was here that the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool was made, a discovery that was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. At Umeå University, everything is close at hand. Our compact campuses make it easy to meet, collaborate and share knowledge, helping to foster a dynamic and open culture.
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Staff Scientist for Cryo-EM and Tomography at Umeå Center for Electron Microscopy
Umeå University is seeking a staff scientist in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and electron tomography. As a staff scientist, you will be part of a technical team working with national research infrastructure at Umeå Centre for Electron Microscopy (UCEM). The position is funded by a grant from SciLifeLab. This is a fixed-term position of 12 months. Applications must be submitted by 30 November 2026.
Duties
You will provide researchers with expert advice on the planning and conduct of electron microscopy (EM), electron tomography and image analysis for research in medicine, biology, chemistry, biochemistry and physics. You will contribute to teaching on methods courses at postgraduate level and to user training in EM. Duties include installing, operating and maintaining instruments and computer systems, as well as assisting researchers with the preparation of EM samples, data collection and image analysis. You will act as a contact person for ongoing facility projects and collaborations between microscopy facilities and other research infrastructures in Sweden and internationally. The work is planned together with the facility’s other staff and carried out independently or together with the facility’s users. Our working language is English.
Qualifications
We are looking for someone with a PhD in structural biology, molecular biology, chemistry or an equivalent subject. You have extensive experience in EM (TEM, SEM and cryo-EM), sample preparation, instrument handling and analysis. Good computer skills, with a focus on image and data analysis, are required. Great importance will be attached to technical skills, including more than 5 years’ experience with EM instruments, methods and image analysis.
You are independent and flexible, able to take on new challenges, establish new methods and contribute to several different projects in parallel. Good collaboration skills are important, as is the ability to receive and share expertise. You also have good communication skills and can express yourself fluently in spoken and written English. You are proactive, creative and service-minded, and want to help facility users and research groups achieve results in their research projects.
Desirable qualifications
Experience in microscopy (different methods), structural biology, biochemistry and technology is an advantage. An international network in EM and previous collaborations with national research infrastructures will be highly valued.
A strong motivation to work with research infrastructure and service functions. You are proactive, creative and service-minded, and want to help facility users and research groups achieve results in their research projects.
Application
Your application must include a cover letter explaining why you are applying for the position, references to research projects involving the use of EM, a CV, degree certificates including your PhD, other relevant certificates and transcripts, and the names and contact details of at least two referees.
The application deadline is 30 November 2026. You apply through our e-recruitment system.
Terms
The position is full-time for 12 months. The start date is as soon as possible or by agreement.
Information
For further information, contact UCEM Coordinator Linda Sandblad, tel: 0709324936 or email: linda.sandblad@umu.se
Umeå University aims to provide an inclusive and equal environment where open conversations between people with different backgrounds and perspectives form the basis for learning, creativity and development. We therefore welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
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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.