Sweden Umea University Postdoctoral Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)

Are you a passionate researcher in Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or Biotechnology? Umeå University in Sweden is now offering an 8-month Postdoctoral Scholarship in Mitochondrial Protein Quality Control, beginning in January 2026. This prestigious opportunity, funded by the Kempe Foundations, provides scholars with a chance to work in a top-ranked research environment at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics.

About the Project

The selected fellow will join the Andreas Kohler Laboratory, where the research focuses on Integrating Mitochondrial Protein Quality Control (PQC) with OXPHOS Biogenesis. The project investigates how PQC systems maintain mitochondrial functionality during ageing, with a focus on mitochondrially encoded proteins.

Research will be conducted using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as the model organism, employing advanced biochemical, proteomic, and flow cytometry techniques to understand protein dynamics and mitochondrial functionality.

This Kempe Foundation-funded Postdoctoral Scholarship offers:

• Full-time research scholarship for 8 months.
• Opportunity to acquire cutting-edge biochemical and proteomic research skills.
• Mentorship and supervision by leading researchers at Umeå University.
• Access to world-class laboratory equipment and collaborative networks.
• A supportive, inclusive, and high-quality research environment.

• Postdoctoral Scholarship (Research Fellowship)

• Medical Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology
• Cell Biology
• Mitochondrial Research and Protein Quality Control

Host Institution

• Umeå University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Sweden

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

To qualify for the Umeå University Postdoctoral Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Required Qualifications:

• Must hold a doctoral degree (PhD) or equivalent in Biochemistry, Cellular or Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related fields.
• Degree must be obtained within the past 3 years (exceptions for parental leave, illness, or similar circumstances).
• Proven research experience and first authorship in peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong skills in protein biochemistry and cell/molecular biology.

Additional Merits (Preferred Skills):

• Prior research experience in mitochondrial biology or protein quality control.
• Experience using S. cerevisiae as a model system.
• Knowledge of high-throughput screening, flow cytometry, and advanced molecular cloning techniques.
• Team-oriented mindset and collaborative research approach.

Interested applicants must submit their applications online via umeå University’s Varbi recruitment system before the deadline: October 18, 2025.

Application Documents Required:

• Cover letter (max 2 pages) summarizing your qualifications, scientific interests, and motivation.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including a publication list.
• Copy of doctoral degree certificate or proof of expected completion.
• Copy of doctoral thesis (PDF or link).
• Copies of other diplomas (Master’s and Bachelor’s).
• Transcripts of records with explanation of grading system.
• Contact details of at least two referees.
• (Optional) Any other supporting documents.

Application Deadline: 18 October 2025 (21:59 UTC)