Open Positions

Subject description

Research within a project on the function and evolution of chemosensory receptor genes (odorant receptors, ionotropic receptors and gustatory receptors). The project aims at comparative studies of the molecular and neural mechanisms of how different species of arthropods smell and taste, including ticks, spiders and insects. It will pave the way for the development of novel strategies for controlling pests and disease vectors.

Work duties

The researcher will be hosted by Dr. Dan-Dan Zhang and Prof. Christer Löfstedt in the Pheromone Group, supported by the Crafoord Foundation and the Max Planck Center on next Generation Insect Chemical Ecology (nGICE).

The main duties of the researcher include identifying candidate chemosensory receptor genes from genomic and transcriptomic data, comparing the expression levels of gene candidates, molecular cloning and functional characterizing of candidate receptors in heterologous systems (mainly two-electrode voltage clamp recordings (TEVC) from oocytes of the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis).

During the employment, the researcher is encouraged to develop applications for continued funding of postdoctoral research together with the hosts, such as MSCA fellowship.

Qualification requirements 

Applicants should have: 

• A PhD or equivalent research qualification within molecular biology/neurobiology.
• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Strong skills in bioinformatic analysis, and documented experience with molecular biological studies of chemosensory receptors and heterologous expression systems (preferably Xenopus oocytes and activity recording with TEVC).
• Interest in chemical communication in general and in evolutionary biology.
• Good communication and collaborative skills. The researcher is expected to take active part in Pheromone Group and nGICE activities.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

The assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject area.

Publication record in functional characterization and evolutionary analysis of chemosensory receptor genes, as well as experience working with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) or electrophysiological recordings such as single sensillum recording (SSR) will considered to be strengths. Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the research environment.

Taking up the position as soon as possible is important.

Terms of employment 

Fixed term employment, full-time. Duration 1 year with possibility of extension depending on future funding. Please contact Dan-Dan Zhang (dan-dan.zhang@biol.lu.se) for inquiries. Starting date: as soon as possible or according to agreement.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• a general description of past research and future research interests (no more than three pages),
• contact information of at least two references,
• copy of the doctoral degree certificate, and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered.

Last application date: February 22, 2023