Kristina Hedfalk

The University of Gothenburg is offering a postdoctoral position in biochemistry and structural biology, focusing on the regulation of eukaryotic aquaporins, particularly the human homologue Aquaporin 4 (hAQP4) and aquaporin isoforms in fish. The Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology provides a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment with strong collaborations and access to state-of-the-art facilities at Natrium, Medicinareberget, Gothenburg. This project aims to unravel the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders by investigating the regulation of hAQP4 in brain diseases. The research also extends to aquaporins in fish, examining isoforms in the intestine and sperm to understand regulatory mechanisms that support fish survival and sustainable aquaculture. The work involves advanced techniques such as Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC), Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, protein purification, and structural characterization using methods like Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), Microscale Thermophoresis (MST), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Electron Microscopy, and X-ray crystallography. The successful candidate will independently and collaboratively conduct research, screening for novel protein interaction partners of hAQP4, verifying membrane protein complexes in vitro, and characterizing protein complexes both biophysically and structurally. The position requires professional expertise in molecular biology, protein chemistry, and familiarity with the academic research environment. Applicants must have a doctoral degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, completed within three years prior to the application deadline. Extensive experience in protein chemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, yeast and membrane protein work, recombinant protein expression, protein purification, and biophysical characterization is essential. Fluency in English is required. Additional merits include experience with large-scale yeast cultivation, FACS analysis, production of protein samples for structural analysis (X-ray, Cryo-EM, NMR), and work with protein complexes. Strong communication, collaboration, professionalism, and flexibility are highly valued. The position is a fixed-term, full-time postdoctoral employment for two years, with salary set individually. The University of Gothenburg values diversity and equal conditions in the workplace. Applications must be submitted via the university’s recruitment portal, including a CV, publication list, research statement, references, degree certificate, and other relevant documents, all in English. The deadline for applications is December 9, 2025. For further information, contact Professor Kristina Hedfalk at [email protected]. More details about the research group and project can be found at Biochemistry Aquaporins and Biochemistry and Structural Biology .