Job description

Applicants are invited for a 3 year position as Postdoctoral Fellow in biochemistry to be based at the Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Oslo.

The position is associated with the research group of professor Heidi Kiil Blomhoff on the project “DNA damage responses regulated by the cAMP/PKA pathway; a tool for improved treatment of pediatric BCP-ALL”. The project is financed by Barnekreftforeningen.

More about the position

The postdoc will take part in a basic project with strong clinical implications. The aim of the project is to identify new targets for improved treatment of B cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL). A key feature of the project is modulation of the cAMP/PKA pathway in regulation of cellular processes such as DNA damage responses, oxidative stress and autophagy. In addition to experiments on cell cultures of primary ALLs and ALL-derived cell lines, in vivo experiments on an established xenograft model of ALL in NSG mice will have a central role.

The main purpose of the fellowship is to qualify researchers for work in higher academic positions within their disciplines.

Qualification requirements

• Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Norwegian doctoral degree in in cell biology, molecular biology or equal.
• The applicant should be able to work independently, take initiatives and be responsible for own progression
• The applicant should be experienced in molecular/cell biological- and immunological techniques, such as isolation and culturing of cells, cell transfections/siRNA techniques, Western blot analysis, confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry analysis. Experience with methodology relevant for analysis of DNA damage responses, ROS and autophagy will also be considered as an advantage. It is essential that the applicant has experience with in vivo animal models and working in animal facilities.
• The applicant must speak and write English fluently

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the relevance of the candidate background, both when it comes to the research field and the experimental methods. We are looking for candidates who have ample experience with cell culturing and assays related to DNA damage responses, autophagy, and oxidative stress. It is essential that the candidate has experience with in vivo mice models and working in animal facilities. The assumed academic and personal ability of the candidate to complete the project within the given timeframe will be considered, as well as social skills for working close with co-workers on the project.

Personal skills

• Highly motivated
• Collaborative skills
• Organization and communication skills

We offer

• Salary NOK 515200 – 565500 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Postdoctoral Research Fellow (position code 1352)
• A professionally stimulating working environment
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities
• Access to public health services through membership of the National Insurance Scheme
• Participation in the Postdoctoral Programme at the Faculty of Medicine

How to apply

The application must include

• Cover letter (statement of motivation, summarizing scientific work and research interest)
• CV (summarizing education, positions, pedagogical experience, administrative experience and other qualifying activity)
• Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• A complete list of publications
• List of reference persons: 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)

The application with attachments must be submitted in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Formal regulations

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo.

No one can be appointed for more than one Postdoctoral Fellow period at the University of Oslo.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo aims to achieve a balanced gender composition in the workforce and to recruit people with ethnic minority backgrounds.

Contact information

• Professor Heidi Kiil Blomhoff, phone number: +47-22851012, e-mail: h.k.blomhoff@medisin.uio.no

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