Postdoc in MLL1 Leukaemia Research, Umeå University

About the Position

2-year postdoctoral fellowship in molecular mechanisms of MLL1-driven leukaemia at Umeå University. Full-time, starts 1 Jan 2027. Apply by 16 Nov 2026.

Opportunity	Postdoc in MLL1 Leukaemia Research, Umeå University
Host	Umeå University
Location	Umeå, Sweden
Study Level	Postdoc
Funding	Fully Funded, stipend provided
Stipend	Scholarship stipend for 2 years (amount not specified).
Application Deadline	16 November 2026
Apply	Official application page ↗

Project Description

The Department of Molecular Biology at Umeå University offers a postdoctoral scholarship in Medical Science focusing on molecular mechanisms of MLL1-driven leukaemia. The scholarship is full-time for two years, beginning 1 January 2027 or by agreement. Application deadline is 16 November 2026.

Research Group

The molecular epigenetics lab (Yuri Schwartz) is a dynamic and stimulating multidisciplinary research environment focused on regulatory mechanisms that enable cells to retain their identity. The lab employs Drosophila and human cell culture models, genomics, genetics, and numerical simulations to understand molecular mechanisms of epigenetic regulation by Polycomb and Trithorax group proteins.

Research Focus

Chromosomal rearrangements of the human MLL1 gene are associated with de novo and therapy-induced paediatric and adult acute leukaemia. The project addresses key questions:

• Does MLL1 act by limiting epigenetic repression of developmental genes?
• Do oncogenic fusions perturb epigenetic repression of alternative gene expression programs?
• Is MLL1 methyltransferase activity critical for oncogenic function, and what are the relevant substrates?

Qualifications

• PhD degree or equivalent foreign qualification in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related fields at time of recruitment.
• Eligibility must be met at latest when decision on scholarship recipient is made.
• Priority to candidates who completed doctoral degree within three years before closing date. Special circumstances (illness, parental leave, clinical practice, trade union appointments) may extend eligibility.
• Very good communication skills in English, oral and written.
• Ability to interact in a team, high intrinsic motivation, and ability to structure research independently.
• Very good working knowledge of standard molecular biology, recombinant DNA techniques, and mammalian cell culture.
• Particularly qualifying: demonstrated expertise in gene regulation, epigenetics, or biochemistry.
• Ability to present findings concisely and accessibly is a plus.

Application

Submit via Umeå University's Varbi system by 16 November 2026. Documents in English or Swedish:

• Cover letter (max 1 page) describing research experience, motivation, and match to requirements.
• CV (max 2 pages) and publication list (max 5 pages).
• Verified copy of doctoral degree certificate or documentation of expected completion.
• Contact information of three references.

Contact

Yuri Schwartz, yuri.schwartz@umu.se

Official Link

https://www.umu.se/en/work-with-us/postdoctoral-scholarships/postdoctoral-fellowship-2-years-in-molecular-mechanisms-of-mll1-driven-leukaemia-at-umea-university_961443/

Important Notes

• Application deadline: 16 November 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
• Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
• Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.

About Umeå University

Umeå University is a public university in northern Sweden. It offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral education across medicine, science, technology, social sciences, humanities and the arts. Its research includes molecular biology and infection biology, while its community supports interdisciplinary inquiry and collaboration across a range of scientific and societal questions.

Official website: https://www.umu.se/en/

How to Apply

Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline: 16 November 2026. Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents — early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.

Open the official application page ↗

Application guides

• Academic CV for PhD Applications: Structure and an Example
• How to Read a PhD Job Advert: Funding, Eligibility and Application Steps