Postdoctoral fellowship in Experimental Rheumatology

at  Linkping University LiU

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP IN EXPERIMENTAL RHEUMATOLOGY

Employer
Linköping University (LiU)
Location
Linköping (Stad), Östergötland (SE)
Salary
Tax-free scholarship of 25,000 SEK/month (appx $2,400)
Closing date
31 May 2024
Discipline
Biomedicine, Health Science, Life Science
Job Type
Postdoctoral
Employment - Hours
Full time
Duration
Fixed term
Qualification
PhD
Sector
Academia
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The Rheumatology group in Professor Christopher Sjöwall’s research group at Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Div of Inflammation & Infection/Rheumatology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden is recruiting a highly motivated candidate to pursue postdoctoral studies targeting the immunological mechanisms in systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases, particularly the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
The selected candidate will analyze various molecules and cells in peripheral blood, such as cytokines and DNA, as well as isolate and culture leukocytes in vitro, to study the functions of the immune system. You will analyze and present results from the experiments, which also includes handling clinical data, as well as writing scientific manuscripts.
Project background: Belimumab is a frequently used treatment in SLE that reduce the life span of B-cells, including autoreactive B-cells, by blocking B-cell activating factor (BAFF). Although belimumab has proven effects in patients with lupus nephritis, there are also reports of SLE patients who develop de novo nephritis during treatment with belimumab. The cause of this is not known, but since belimumab is a B cell-targeted agent, it can be hypothesized that it also affects B cells that normally regulate inflammation, i.e., regulatory B (Breg) cells.
Purpose: To investigate whether BAFF and belimumab affects the development and function of Breg cells in vitro.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

The candidate should demonstrate scientific curiosity/creativity, a strong professional ethic, and good potential for independent investigation. A PhD or MD/PhD in immunology, molecular biology, experimental rheumatology, or related fields is required.
Good theoretical knowledge and experimental experience in immunology and cell biology are required. Techniques such as ELISA, flow cytometry, cell culture, cell isolation, immunofluorescence microscopy and PCR will be required. Prior knowledge in rheumatology is meritorious.
You are expected to contribute as a member of a team, as well as to be independent and thorough in your work and furthermore motivated to learn new things and ways of working. Good knowledge of written and spoken English language is a requirement.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

Application via email to lisa.dobrosch@liu.se including:

• Cover letter describing current and future research interests
• Curriculum vitae which should include a brief summary (3 pages) of previous research experience
• Names and contact information of at least two referees familiar with your previous research experience
• Copy of your passport
• Copy of your PhD diploma

Please refer the Job description for details