PhD Position in Medical Science with Specialization in Bioinformatics – Gut Microbiota in Early Childhood Umeå University in Sweden

Umeå University’s Department of Clinical Microbiology invites applications for a PhD position in medical science with a specialization in bioinformatics. The research project focuses on tracking strain-wide differences within human gut bacteria species during early childhood, aiming to improve understanding of adaptive mechanisms in gut microbiota and guide next-generation microbiota-aided therapies.

The project investigates gut microbiota community development in children, analyzing longitudinal fecal shotgun metagenomics data from 500 children followed from birth to three years of age. The research will explore how environmental, clinical, and lifestyle exposures shape microbial community development, with the goal of elucidating microbiome trajectories and their impact on health.

The successful candidate will join the Data Driven Life Sciences (DDLS) PhD research school, benefiting from an international, stimulating, and collaborative research environment. The position is affiliated with the Department of Clinical Microbiology, the Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS), and the Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR), offering opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and access to top-quality research facilities.

Funding is provided via the SciLifeLab and Wallenberg National Program for Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS), a 12-year initiative supporting the next generation of data-driven life scientists. The position includes salary, access to computing resources, research school activities, and training/networking opportunities throughout Sweden and Europe.

Eligibility requires at least 240 higher education credits (with 60 at an advanced level) in natural sciences, life sciences, or engineering. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English, motivation, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Meritorious qualifications include degrees in bioinformatics, computational biology, statistics, mathematics, computer science, or related fields, as well as strong programming skills (Python or R preferred). Experience in sequence analysis, microbial genomics, metagenome assembly, and database development is advantageous. Familiarity with UNIX filesystems, conda environments, github package installation, and cluster batch job submission is desirable.

The doctoral programme comprises 25 credits and is offered in two variants: 4 years (8 terms) or 6 years (12 terms), starting each autumn and spring semester. The research group is part of a consortium representing medical and molecular microbiology, molecular and structural biology, chemistry, and physics, dedicated to microbial pathogenesis and novel applications in life sciences.

To apply, submit a cover letter (one A4 page), CV with publication list, certified copies of diplomas, certificates, and grades, and names/contact details of at least two reference persons. Applications are made electronically via the Varbi system. For further information, contact Dr Chinmay Dwibedi.

This is a fully funded PhD position with a flexible start date, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in gut microbiota and bioinformatics at Umeå University.