Postdoc

The department of Clinical Sciences, SLU, Uppsala, Sweden, is announcing a position as Post doc (two-year position) within the field of immunology/biotechnology/biochemistry/veterinary medicine

We are looking for a veterinarian, immunologist, biotechnologist, or biochemist, to work with the development and production of a monoclonal antibody targeting the bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis, to be applied in clinical investigations on the specific, local immunity of sow milk.

The bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis causes large disease problems in pigs. The intestinal intracellular bacterium is difficult to cultivate, and the diagnosis is made by findings at necropsy, PCR, and by serology. A commercial, blocking ELISA is available, but findings from various analyses may indicate a lack of specificity.

Assignment:

The goal of the project is to develop and evaluate a specific, monoclonal antibody to Lawsonia intracellularis for the use in studies of the local immunity (specifically IgA) in sow milk. L. intracellularis cannot be cultivated but an inactivated vaccine-strain is commercially available, as well as several whole-genome sequences deposited. Several studies also suggest a number of presumptive virulence genes. The studies may include investigations on the antigenicity and specificity of the antigens described, and may also include the in silico development of additional antigens that can be produced and analysed with respect to antigenicity in the development of monoclonal antibodies. The project may also include the production of antigens from the vaccine strain or from bacteria isolated from intestinal tissue, to use in immunisations of mice or rabbits.

Qualifications:

This position is for a junior researcher. A doctoral degree within any of the fields above is requested. Experiences from self-independent work with the techniques described above, including proteomics, and experience from molecular-biology techniques such as immuno-blotting, cloning, et cetera, is a merit. Experience from planning and leading research projects independently and in groups is valuable. Good knowledge in the English language is requested.

Selection among the applicants is based on a written application including a personal letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, and personal references. 

Placement:

Uppsala

Employment:

Two years employment as a post-doc with the possibility of one year’s extension

Extent:

100 %

Admittance:

Upon agreement

Application:

Welcome with your application no later than March 11th , 2024, using the button below

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Contact person

URL to this pagehttps://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=9872&rmlang=UK