PhD in Biophysics of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins and Postdoc in Protein Phase Separation Stockholm University in Sweden

Stockholm University is advertising two research openings in biophysics in the group of Cagla Sahin: a PhD student in Biophysics and a Postdoctoral Fellow in Biophysics of Protein Phase Separation. The lab works on intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), chaperones, liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), and protein aggregation, with a strong focus on disease-relevant systems such as TDP-43 and the human chaperone DNAJB6.

The PhD project, titled Conformational and dynamical landscape of disordered proteins, aims to understand how conformational transitions of TDP-43 are linked to LLPS and amyloid self-assembly. The work uses an integrative biophysical approach including fluorescence spectroscopy, absorbance spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, protein expression and purification, and structural mass spectrometry (native, ion mobility, and HDX).

The postdoc project, The Role of the Human Chaperone DNAJB6 in Regulation of Liquid-Liquid and Liquid-Solid Phase Transitions, investigates how DNAJB6 regulates protein phase behavior and aggregation in vitro. The work includes recombinant protein expression and purification, protein engineering, microscopy-based LLPS assays, and structural mass spectrometry approaches such as native ion mobility-MS, hydrogen-deuterium exchange, and crosslinking MS.

Eligibility highlights: PhD applicants need the relevant second-cycle degree/credits and specific coursework in Physics, Chemistry, Biophysics, Biochemistry, or Physical Chemistry. Strong English, analytical thinking, collaboration, creativity, initiative, and independence are emphasized. Postdoc applicants must hold a doctoral degree or equivalent; recent PhD completion is advantageous. Experience with protein biochemistry, biophysical methods, mass spectrometry, IDPs, and phase separation is highly desirable.

Funding and employment: The PhD is a fixed-term doctoral employment for up to four years. The postdoc is a full-time temporary position for 2–3 years, with possible extension under special circumstances, and is supported by the Olle Engkvist Stiftelse. No stipend amount is listed.

Application window: PhD deadline is 22 April 2026. Postdoc deadline is 8 May 2026. Apply via Stockholm University’s recruitment system and submit a personal letter, CV, and the requested attachments before the deadline.