Postdoctoral researcher in Vaccine Development
Ref no: ORU 2.1.1-06109/2026
The School of Medical Sciences at Örebro University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in Biomedicine (Molecular Virology and mRNA Vaccine Development) for a fixed-term appointment.
Subject area
The subject area for this position is Biomedicine.
Background
The School of Medical Sciences at Örebro University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the Cellular and Molecular Virology research group.
The position is part of the research project "Development of novel mRNA-based TBE vaccines", funded by the Knowledge Foundation (KK-stiftelsen). The project focuses on the development and evaluation of novel mRNA-based vaccines against tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV).
The research builds on extensive expertise in the molecular biology of tick-borne flaviviruses, viral reverse genetics, virus–host interactions and vaccine development. The project is conducted in close collaboration with academic and industrial partners.
Duties and responsibilities
The appointment as a postdoctoral researcher is intended to enable persons who have recently been awarded their doctoral degree to consolidate and further develop their research skills.
The successful candidate will conduct experimental research focusing on the molecular biology of tick-borne flaviviruses and the development of novel mRNA-based vaccines against tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV).
The work will include molecular cloning, viral reverse genetics, infectious cDNA clones, site-directed mutagenesis, and the generation and characterization of recombinant flaviviruses. Particular emphasis will be placed on investigating viral replication, virus–host interactions, and the molecular determinants of viral pathogenicity.
The researcher will also contribute to the design and evaluation of vaccine candidates using cell-based assays, in vivo animal models, neutralization assays, and relevant immunological methods. The project will be conducted in close collaboration with other researchers and industrial partners. The position also involves analysis of experimental data, preparation of scientific publications, and presentation of research findings.
Qualifications
To be eligible for appointment as a postdoctoral researcher, applicants must hold a doctoral degree, or an equivalent foreign degree, in a subject relevant to the position, such as molecular virology, virology, molecular biology or biomedicine.
Applicants who are in the final stages of their doctoral studies and expect to complete their PhD before the employment decision are also encouraged to apply. The doctoral degree must be completed no later than the time of the employment decision.
Priority will be given to applicants who have obtained their doctoral degree no more than three years before the application deadline, in accordance with the applicable postdoctoral employment agreement. Exceptions may apply under special circumstances.
The applicant may not previously have held a position as a postdoctoral researcher for more than one year in the same subject and at the same higher education institution. The position is for a term of at least 2 years initially but may be extended for a further 1 year. If the person during the period of employment has been on parental leave, the period of employment is to be extended by the corresponding number of days. The period of employment may also be extended in the event of absence due to illness.
Assessment criteria
Particular importance will be attached to documented research experience in molecular virology, especially tick-borne flaviviruses, including tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) and Langat virus (LGTV).
The applicant should have extensive hands-on experience in viral reverse genetics, including the construction and manipulation of infectious cDNA clones, site-directed mutagenesis, and the generation of recombinant tick-borne flaviviruses. Particular importance will be attached to documented experience in the recovery and propagation of infectious viruses in cell culture, as well as the molecular and phenotypic characterization of viral mutants, including analysis of viral replication and virus–host interactions.
Previous experience in vaccine development, mRNA-based technologies, animal models, neutralization assays, and immunological methods will be considered an additional merit.
The applicant should demonstrate scientific independence, good analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to plan and conduct experimental research. Good communication and collaboration skills are essential, particularly in an interdisciplinary research environment involving academic and industrial partners. Excellent written and spoken English is required.
In addition, the applicant’s suitability for the position will be assessed. Suitability refers to the applicant demonstrating the personal qualities required to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities at hand, the ability to cooperate with other members of staff, and the ability to contribute to the development of the operations.
Information
The position is a full-time (100%) fixed-term appointment for two years, preferably starting in January 2027. The appointment may be extended for up to one additional year, if required to fulfil the purpose of the appointment, subject to available funding and applicable regulations. Salary is determined individually based on qualifications and experience.
For further information about the position, please contact Professor Magnus Johansson, School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, e-mail: magnus.johansson@oru.se.
At Örebro University, we expect each member of staff to be open to development and change; take responsibility for their work and performance; demonstrate a keen interest in collaboration and contribute to development; as well as to show respect for others by adopting a constructive and professional approach.
Örebro University actively pursues equal opportunities and gender equality as well as a work environment characterised by openness, trust and respect. We value the qualities that diversity adds to our operations.
Application
Applications are submitted online via Örebro University's recruitment system.
A complete application should include the following documents:
- A cover letter, describing your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation for applying for the position.
- A curriculum vitae (CV), including relevant research experience, scientific publications, and contact details for at least two references.
- A description of scientific qualifications and research achievements.
- Copies of relevant degree certificates or, for applicants who have not yet completed their doctoral degree, documentation confirming the expected date of completion.
- Relevant scientific publications (maximum of ten, submitted in full text).
Only documents written in Swedish, English, Norwegian or Danish can be considered.
For more information about the application process, please visit Örebro University's website: https://www.oru.se/english/career/available-positions/applicants-and-external-experts/
The application deadline is November 19, 2026. We look forward to receiving your application!
We decline any contact with advertisers or recruitment agencies in the recruitment process.
As directed by the National Archives of Sweden (Riksarkivet), Örebro University is required to deposit one file copy of the application documents, excluding publications, for a period of two years after the appointment decision has gained legal force.
