Postdoctor in Marine Biology
University of Gothenburg
Sweden

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

Postdoctor in “Utilisation of polyploidy in macroalgae breeding: cultivation potential of polyploid Ulva for a flourishing Blue Economy”

The Department of Marine Science (https://www.gu.se/marina-vetenskaper) at the University of Gothenburg has with its broad scientific competence area and its unique infrastructure the most complete environment for marine science and marine education in Sweden. Only a few similar organisations exist in Europe. Through advanced research infrastructure and the clear connection to society's needs and challenges, the Department contributes to new solutions for the global challenges surrounding the ocean.

The Department of Marine Science conducts science, education and innovation related to the sea and its resources. The operation is conducted in Gothenburg, at the research stations Kristineberg Center for Marine Research and Innovation and Tjärnö Marine Laboratory, as well as on the research vessel Skagerak. The Department has an interdisciplinary width that includes marine biology, marine chemistry, marine geology, preservation of marine cultural heritage, and oceanography, and the research area spans geographically from coast to world ocean. Our scientists and students often have prominent roles in international expeditions in Antarctica, the Arctic, and the great world seas, but also work in our newly built laboratories with advanced equipment and complex analyses methods. The Department also has a broad education palette, including a bachelor’s programme, three master´s programmes and a Ph. D. education in the marine domain.

Subject area 

Marine biology

Subject area description 

This postdoctoral position is part of the EU-funded BlueBioBoost project, which aims to unlock the potential of blue biotechnology through sustainable macroalgal innovations. The project brings together a multidisciplinary and international team of researchers and industry partners across Europe to tackle challenges in algal breeding, cultivation, and biotechnological applications. As a PostDoc in this project, you will actively collaborate with diverse teams, contributing to shared goals while benefiting from a vibrant, collaborative research environment. Teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are essential as you engage with cutting-edge research at the forefront of blue biotechnology. Learn more about the project at BlueBioBoost.eu and https://maritime-forum.ec.europa.eu/learn-how-sustainable-blue-economy-partnership-project-blue-bio-boost-boosting-seaweed-farming_en.

The subject area of the PostDoc encompasses the study and application of the future crop Ulva, with a focus on ploidy and phenotypic analyses for breeding and biotechnological purposes. This includes exploring the role of polyploidy in Ulva cultivation, enhancing the understanding of mechanisms behind phenotypic traits such as size, biochemical composition, and reproductive capabilities. Special emphasis is placed on leveraging these traits for sustainable aquaculture and the development of high-value biomaterials.

Duties 

The primary duties of the postdoctoral researcher include:

1. Research and Development:

• Conduct advanced ploidy screening in Ulva fenestrata using flow cytometry, chromosome counting, and fluorescence imaging.
• Develop and refine methodologies for polyploidy determination and apply them.
• Investigate the ploidy and phenotypic underpinnings of giant Ulva individuals through cultivation experiments.

• Maintain and propagate algal strains in laboratory settings.
• Evaluate growth patterns, developmental velocity, and inheritance of specific phenotypes.
• Collect and analyze phenotypic data including macromorphology, cell size, and biochemical profiles.

• Perform detailed analyses of macroalgal biochemical compounds such as proteins, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and pigments using advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.
• Assess the potential of strains for high-value applications in biotechnology and aquaculture.

• Work closely with national and international partners to integrate findings into broader research objectives.
• Publish high-quality research articles in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at conferences.
• Prepare progress reports and contribute to the drafting of project deliverables.
• The PostDoc position will include international traveling for collaborations, instrument access, workshop, and conference participation.

• Mentor undergraduate or graduate students working on related projects.
• Contribute to seminars or workshops related to macroalgal genetics and cultivation.

This role will provide an opportunity to contribute significantly to sustainable aquaculture innovations and macroalgae research while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of leading researchers.

Eligibility 

The eligibility criteria for employing teaching staff are set out in Chapter 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance and in the Appointment Procedure for Teaching Posts at the University of Gothenburg. 

To be eligible for appointment as a postdoc, the applicant is required to have a doctoral degree, a doctoral degree in art or a foreign degree that is deemed to be equivalent to a doctoral degree. This eligibility requirement must be met before the employment decision is made. 

In the first instance, those who have completed their degree no more than three years prior to the end of the application period shall be considered. Those who have completed their degree more than three years prior to the end of the application period may also be considered in the first instance if special grounds exist. Special grounds relate to leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, commissions of trust within union organisations, service within the defence services or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignment relevant to the subject area.   

The successful candidate should hold a PhD in a relevant field (e.g. marine biology, botany, horticulter etc.) must be fluent in English (Swedish knowledge is of advantage) and possess a valid Category B driver’s license to be able to engage in field work. They should demonstrate strong teamwork skills while also excelling in independent planning and problem-solving. Experience in designing and running experiments, handling large datasets, and analyzing phenotypic data is essential.

Preference will be given to candidates with expertise in setting up phenotyping platforms in crop or seaweed systems, prior work with seaweeds, and knowledge of ploidy measurement techniques such as flow cytometry or chromosome counting. 

Assessment criteria 

The successful candidate will be assessed based on their overall qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role. A PhD in a relevant field, such as marine biology, botany, or horticulture, is required, along with fluency in English and proven ability to undertake and plan scientific experiments in the named field. Strong teamwork skills and the ability to work independently, plan effectively, and solve problems are essential. Relevant research experience, including conducting experiments, managing large datasets, and analyzing phenotypic data, as well as solid knowledge of seaweed systems (Ulva) is highly valued. Additional consideration will be given to candidates with experience in phenotyping platforms, prior work with seaweeds, and knowledge of ploidy measurement techniques. Experience with ploidy measurements, including imaging and flow cytometry techniques, is of great advantage. Emphasis is placed on personal suitability.

Employment 

The employment is a fixed-term employment for 2 years, 100% of full time and placed at the Department of Marine Science in Tjärnö Marine Laboratory (field station), Strömstad. Starting date is upon agreement but as early as possible.

Selection process 

Find information here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande#S%C3%A5-h%C3%A4r-g%C3%A5r-rekryteringsprocessen-till %

Contact information 

If you have any questions about the position, please contact Sophie Steinhagen (sophie.steinhagen@gu.se) 
If you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Sofie Emanuelsson (sofie.emanuelsson@gu.se)

Unions 

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande 

Application 

Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline.  

Your application must be in English and comprise:

• A short paragraph explaining why the applicant is interested in the position and how they meet the qualifications and requirements (max 2 A4 pages).
  
  
• A short explanation how the applicant would propose to contribute to the project within WP2 “Utilisation of polyploidy in macroalgae breeding: cultivation potential of “giant Ulva” individuals” (max 2 pages; find more info on the project here: https://maritime-forum.ec.europa.eu/learn-how-sustainable-blue-economy-partnership-project-blue-bio-boost-boosting-seaweed-farming_en; https://bluebioboost.eu/)
  
  
• A signed curriculum vitae (CV)
  
  
• A copy of the PhD certificate (in English)
  
  
• Additional certificates on eventual courses, awards, additional training
  
  
• A complete list of publications, including submitted and accepted manuscripts
  
  
• 2 reference letters of recommendation
  
  
• Names and contact details of two references.

Applications must be received by: 2025-02-03

Information for International Applicants 

Choosing a career in a foreign country is a big step. Thus, to give you a general idea of what we and Gothenburg have to offer in terms of benefits and life in general for you and your family/spouse/partner please visit: 

https://www.gu.se/en/about-the-university/welcome-services 
https://www.movetogothenburg.com/ 

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.