Job description

Open 3-year position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (SKO 1352) in molecular immunology and cell biology at the Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research.

The Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) of the Oslo University Hospital (OUH) Radiumhospitalet, is one of the largest Cancer Centers in Europe. The Institute for Cancer Research, OUH, and University of Oslo, Norway (http://ous-research.no/institute/) is a leading institute for cancer research in the Nordic region hosting state-of-the art core facilities for advanced imaging, multiparameter flow cytometry, next generation sequencing and bioinformatics.

More about the position

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with an interest in immunology, cell biology and intracellular imaging to join the “Natural Killer Cell Biology and Cell Therapy” group led by Professor Karl-Johan Malmberg at the Institute for Cancer Research, The University of Oslo, Norway. The Malmberg Lab is a partner in the K.G. Jebsen Centre for Cancer Immunotherapy https://www.med.uio.no/klinmed/english/research/centres/kgj-cancer-immunotherapy/ and the ITN network MATURE-NK.

The group studies the molecular and cellular basis for NK cell differentiation and repertoire formation in health and disease. A key focus is to gain insights into how killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) influence the function of human NK cells. KIR are HLA class I binding receptors with important functions in reproduction, immunity to infections, and in cell therapy against cancer. We examine the dynamic shaping of human NK cell repertoires at homeostasis, during viral infection, tumor transformation and following stem cell transplantation. We are also seeking to implement new insights into the adaptive-like behavior of NK cells in the next generation of NK cell-based immunotherapy for patients with refractory or relapsing malignancies.

The group makes extensive use of advanced multicolor flowcytometry, CyTOF, molecular biology methods, cellular assays, advanced imaging and initiates clinical studies with cell therapy towards hematological cancers. Home page: https://www.ous-research.no/malmberg/

The overall objective of the current project is to gain new insights into the cellular mechanisms regulating functional tuning in human NK cells with a focus on the homeostasis of the lysosomal compartment. The work involves generation of new genetic probes for detailed imaging of the lysosomal compartment and to elucidate the 3D-organization and calcium channel containing membranes of secretory lysosomes by immuno-EM. Another goal is to map the lysosomal morphology and composition in distinct NK cell subsets (states of differentiation and educated/uneducated) at rest and during the recovery/reloading phase.

The work will be carried out in close collaboration with Professor Andreas Brech, head of the Unit of Cellular Electron Microscopy (UCEM) at the Department of Molecular Cell Biology. The unit has a proven track record in state-of-the art techniques such as electron tomography, correlative light/electron microscopy, high pressure freezing and cryo-EM. Instrumentation includes a 200 kV TalosC, 120 kV Jeol, high pressure freezer and cryo-microtomes. The UCEM is closely interacting with the core-facility for Advanced Light Microscopy, which offers access to the following equipment: Zeiss LSM 880 Airyscan FAST microscope for confocal and superresolution microscopy equipped for live imaging, a Zeiss LSM 710 confocal microscope equipped for live imaging, a Delta Vision microscope for long-term live imaging, and a Delta Vision OMX V4 Blaze 3D-SIM multimodal microscope with the options to do superresolution (SIM, Storm), TIRF, and ultrafast widefield imaging.

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

Qualification requirements

• Suitable applicants have a PhD degree in immunology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry or a related field
• Project relevant PhD and immunological/medical knowledge are considered strong advantages
• Working knowledge of super resolution microscopy, electron tomography or other advanced imaging techniques are an advantage, but training will be provided
• Experience in data analysis through either the ImageJ or ICY platform as well as Imaris is an advantage
• Knowledge of automated data analysis with Python, MATHLAB or CellProfiler is an advantage
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Personal skills

• High working capacity
• Curiosity-driven with a strong motivation
• Excellent teamwork skills and flexibility
• Interest in solving biological problems
• Ability to design, plan, interpret original experiments in an independent and innovative manner

We offer

• Excellent working conditions
• An exciting and stimulating academic environment
• Salary NOK 523 200 - NOK 594 400 per year depending on qualifications in a position as Postdoctoral Research Fellow (position code 1352)
• 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

How to apply

The application must include:

• A one-page statement of motivation and research interests
• CV (summarizing education, positions and academic work)
• List of publications and academic work
• Transcripts of university diplomas
• Names and contact details of 2-3 referees (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered 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).

When evaluating the application, emphasis will be given to the applicant’s academic and personal prerequisites to carry out the project. 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

Further details can be requested from:

• Professor Karl-Johan Malmberg, k.j.malmberg@medisin.uio.no

Questions regarding the electronic application form can be addressed to HR Adviser Thoril Kristiansen, thoril.kristiansen@medisin.uio.no

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