PhD Position in Plant Science (Tomato Flower Development, Molecular Biology) at Umeå University Umeå University in Sweden

Umeå University, one of Sweden’s leading higher education institutions, is offering a fully funded PhD position in plant science at the Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC). The research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying symmetry breaking in tomato flower development, a fundamental process in plant and animal morphogenesis. The project integrates experimental and computational approaches, including genomics, proteomics, genome editing, protein engineering, live cell imaging, mathematical modelling, and functional genomics. The PhD student will identify and characterize molecular regulators, such as microproteins, that control flower development, and will validate predictions using advanced molecular tools and genome engineering.

The Department of Plant Physiology at UPSC is recognized as one of Europe’s strongest research environments for basic plant research, covering a wide range of disciplines including ecology, computational biology, genetics, physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology. The successful candidate will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team and benefit from a collaborative research environment.

Eligibility requires a completed advanced degree (second-cycle) or equivalent, with at least 240 ECTS credits (including 60 at advanced level). Specific requirements include 90 ECTS in Biology or related fields (Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science), with at least 15 ECTS directly relevant to the research topic and 15 ECTS from an individual project course. Good English proficiency is mandatory. Additional qualifications such as experience in tomato cultivation, transformation, and molecular biology techniques (PCR, DNA/RNA isolation, protein biochemistry) are advantageous. The position is intended for a creative, proactive individual who can work independently and collaboratively.

The PhD studentship is fully funded, with salary according to the university’s established ladder. The employment is for four years full-time (or up to five years with part-time teaching). The application deadline is March 31, 2026, and the expected start date is May 1, 2026, or as agreed. Applications should be submitted via the university’s recruitment system and include a motivation letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, thesis/publications, and references. For further information, contact the supervisor, Stephan Wenkel ([email protected]).

Keywords: plant science, molecular biology, tomato flower development, symmetry breaking, genomics, proteomics, genome editing, protein engineering, mathematical modelling, functional genomics, plant physiology.