Postdoctoral Researcher in Rheumatology (SLE)

About the role

The Division of Rheumatology at Lund University (Department of Clinical Sciences Lund) is seeking a full-time postdoctoral researcher to join the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) research group led by Professor Anders Bengtsson. The group combines clinical characterization of SLE with experimental studies of its mechanisms, and also includes groups on arthritis and vasculitis. The workplace is in Lund, near Skåne University Hospital, and the position is intended as an initial step in an academic career.

Key responsibilities

• Experimental research, including developing assays, identifying and characterizing novel platelet autoantigens in SLE and related diseases
• Characterize the cerebrospinal fluid proteome in SLE patients and investigate the type I interferon system
• Study phospholipid, neuronal and other autoantibodies relevant to SLE, especially those linked to the brain and central nervous system
• Analyse brain imaging results together with other biomarkers
• Compile findings and publish in scientific journals
• Take part in laboratory projects from other groups in the division, internal meetings and international conferences; travel is required

Required profile

• PhD in rheumatology, preferably with a focus on SLE and the central nervous system
• Completed PhD no more than three years before the application deadline, unless special circumstances apply
• Fluent Swedish and good command of English
• Merit-based selection based on scientific merit and potential

Required skills

• ELISA, cell-based reporter gene assays, qPCR, protein purification and protein chemistry
• Bioinformatics and proteomics of cerebrospinal fluid
• Writing papers and reviewing scientific literature
• Meritorious: GMP, GLP and GCP training, and specialist knowledge of the complement system

Employment is fixed-term for 2 years, extendable by one more year, starting on 1 January 2027 or by agreement. Applications go through the university's recruitment system and must include a personal letter, CV, publications list, PhD certificate and two references.