Associate Researcher

The University of Gothenburg tackles society's challenges with diverse knowledge. 58 000 students and 6800 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future. The Institute of Biomedicine is involved in both research and education. In both of these areas, we focus on fundamental knowledge of the living cell – what it consists of, how it works, how its function is directed by the genetic material, and how it interacts with various kinds of micro-organisms. Using this knowledge, we try to elucidate the causes of diseases, and find new ways to diagnose and treat them. The Institute is composed of the following four departments: The Department of Infectious Diseases The Department of Microbiology and Immunology The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology The Department of Laboratory Medicine At present, the institute has about 315 employees and approximately 450 million SEK in total assets. Are you interested in translational research and keen to learn advanced methods in mucosal biology? We offer an exciting opportunity to join the Mucin Biology Groups at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg. Our research groups form a strong, internationally recognized collaborative network focused on understanding the roles of mucins and mucus in protecting the epithelial surfaces of the body, and how alterations in these systems are linked to disease. The position is part of a collaborative project between the research groups of Malin Johansson and Thaher Pelaseyed. Read more about our research here: http://www.medkem.gu.se/mucinbiology/   Duties The intestine is constantly exposed to numerous harmful agents through food intake, from microorganisms, and from endogenous substances such as hydrochloric acid, digestive enzymes, and bile. Several defense mechanisms protect the epithelium, including a secreted mucus layer and an epithelial surface glycocalyx. Defects in these protective systems have been linked to infections, chronic inflammation, and cancer. In this Gates Foundation–funded project, we will investigate how mucin barriers are altered in Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (EED), a common condition associated with malnutrition in low- and middle-income countries and characterized by low-grade inflammation in the small intestine, reduced nutrient absorption, and a weakened epithelial barrier. The overall goal is to identify defects in mucin barriers that drive disease and, ultimately, to find biomarkers and strategies to prevent or treat disease. You will analyze small intestinal biopsies and mucosal brushings from patients with EED (Lusaka cohort, Zambia) and compare them with control material. Your duties will include: Histochemical and immunohistochemical staining of proteins, glycans (lectins and glycan-specific antibodies) and RNA (RNAscope) on fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections Efficient workflows using semi-automated microscopy, as well as advanced image analysis and quantification in, e.g., QuPath, ImageJ, and Imaris In-depth analyses using high-resolution confocal and Airyscan microscopy, as well as cell and molecular biology methods Quantitative morphometry of crypt–villus units and analysis of goblet cells, enterocytes and their interactions with immune cells Preparation of brushing samples for verification by mass spectrometry-based proteomics, and complementary biochemical analyses Documentation, data management, and presentation of results within the research group The work is performed with a high degree of independence. The research environment offers excellent opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange with experts across a broad spectrum of experimental techniques.   Qualifications The candidate must hold a Master's degree in Pharmacy. We are seeking a candidate with documented experience in the methods described above. Experience with various histological techniques and with applying advanced microscopy to tissue samples is required. Particular weight will be placed on documented prior research experience in mucin biology and related protective mucosal barriers. You are engaged, meticulous, and responsible, with the ambition to independently develop and apply new methods. Candidate selection will be based on scientific and methodological qualifications as well as personal attributes.   Employment The position is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for 6 months, based at the Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Start date: November 1, 2026 or as per agreeement.   Contact information for the post If you have any questions about the position, please contact Associate Professor Thaher Pelaseyed. Phone: 031-786 3154. E-mail: thaher.pelaseyed@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 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. Applications must be received by: 2026-10-21   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 applicatio