Researcher Job in Plant RNA Biology at Lund University, Sweden
Lund University is inviting applications for a Researcher in Plant RNA Biology to join a cutting-edge molecular biology project investigating how non-coding RNAs and chromatin architecture regulate gene expression in plants. This full-time, fixed-term appointment is based in Lund, Sweden, and is initially offered for one year, starting as soon as possible. For researchers with expertise in plant molecular biology, RNA biology, CRISPR/Cas9, and next-generation sequencing, this position offers a highly focused and intellectually rich opportunity at one of Scandinavia’s top universities.
The Researcher position in Plant RNA Biology at Lund University offers an excellent opportunity to investigate fundamental questions in gene regulation using state-of-the-art molecular and computational methods. For scientists passionate about non-coding RNAs, chromatin biology, and plant molecular genetics, this role provides a focused, publication-oriented research environment within one of Europe’s most respected universities.
About Lund University
Founded in 1666, Lund University is consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities. The university hosts approximately 46,000 students and 8,500 employees across campuses in Lund, Malmö, and Helsingborg. Its Faculty of Science encompasses research and teaching in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Geosciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Astronomy
The faculty includes around 730 staff members and more than 330 doctoral students, creating a vibrant and collaborative scientific environment.
Research Project Overview
The project explores a central question in plant gene regulation:
How do chromatin signatures associated with non-coding RNA production suppress gene induction?
Previous work by the research group demonstrated that non-coding regions of plant genomes contribute to stress resilience and transcriptional control. Building on this foundation, the current project investigates how chromatin modifications influence transcription start site (TSS) selection and alternative polyadenylation.
Key Scientific Techniques
The project combines several advanced approaches:
- STRIPE-seq for genome-wide TSS mapping
- Oxford Nanopore direct RNA sequencing
- CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing
- Chromatin mutant analysis
- Bioinformatics and statistical genomics
The successful candidate will work with existing datasets and generate targeted deletions to validate mechanistic hypotheses.
Research Themes and Scientific Significance
This work sits at the intersection of:
- Plant RNA biology
- Epigenetics
- Chromatin biology
- Transcription regulation
- Non-coding RNA function
- Stress biology
A particularly exciting aspect is the discovery that altered transcription initiation can bypass intronic alternative polyadenylation, allowing full-length mRNA production under specific chromatin conditions.
This research has broad implications for understanding how plants adapt to environmental challenges at the molecular level.
Main Responsibilities
The appointed researcher will:
- Conduct independent research in plant RNA biology
- Complete analyses of high-throughput sequencing datasets
- Design and generate CRISPR/Cas9 deletions
- Interpret genomic and transcriptomic data
- Prepare manuscripts for publication
- Contribute to teaching and supervision
- Seek external research funding
- Participate in administrative and collaborative activities
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will combine strong experimental and computational skills.
Required Qualifications
- PhD in plant molecular biology, RNA biology, genetics, or a related field
- Strong background in molecular plant biology
- Experience with custom next-generation sequencing protocols
- Excellent English communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
Preferred Qualifications
- Bioinformatics experience using high-performance computing
- Proficiency in R and Python
- Knowledge of transcriptional regulation and chromatin biology
- Strong publication focus and project completion skills
Personal Attributes
- Intellectual curiosity
- Persistence
- Self-motivation
- Collaborative mindset
Salary and Employment Conditions
This is a:
- Full-time position (100%)
- Fixed-term contract for one year
- Start date as soon as possible
Salary is provided as a monthly salary according to Swedish university employment regulations.
Swedish academic employment typically includes:
- Generous vacation allowance
- Public pension contributions
- Parental leave benefits
- Universal healthcare access
- Strong work-life balance
Why This Position Is Scientifically Attractive
This opportunity stands out because it offers:
- Access to unique unpublished genomic datasets
- Integration of experimental and computational biology
- CRISPR/Cas9 functional validation
- High publication potential
- A research focus on fundamental mechanisms of plant gene regulation
- Employment at a globally respected university
For researchers aiming to deepen expertise in RNA biology and chromatin-mediated transcriptional control, this role provides both scientific depth and technical breadth.
Application Deadline
27 May 2026
Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a single PDF containing:
- Curriculum Vitae, including publication list
- Research statement (past work and future interests, maximum three pages)
- Contact information for at least two referees
- PhD degree certificate and other relevant academic records
- All documents must be written in English.
- APPLY NOW
Contact Information
For scientific questions, contact:
Andreas Sebastian Marquardt
Email: andreas_sebastian.marquardt@biol.lu.se
APPLY NOW Reference number: PA2026/1588
Who Should Apply?
This position is ideal for scientists interested in:
- Plant RNA biology
- Epigenetics and chromatin regulation
- Non-coding RNAs
- Transcriptomics
- CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
- Plant stress responses
- Computational genomics
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a postdoctoral position?
The title is “Researcher,” which in Sweden typically refers to a post-PhD research role similar to a postdoctoral or early-career scientist position.
How long is the contract?
The appointment is for one year, full time.
Is experience with CRISPR/Cas9 required?
The project involves CRISPR/Cas9, so prior experience is highly beneficial, though not explicitly mandatory.
What sequencing technologies are used?
The project uses STRIPE-seq and Oxford Nanopore direct RNA sequencing.
Is computational analysis an important part of the role?
Yes. Strong skills in R, Python, and high-performance computing are highly valued.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. Lund University welcomes applications from researchers worldwide.
What documents are required?
A CV, research statement, references, and academic certificates must be combined into one PDF.
When is the application deadline?
27 May 2026.
Where is Lund University located?
Lund is in southern Sweden, in the Skåne region, with close connections to Copenhagen and major European research centers.
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