Are you passionate about molecular dynamics and curious about the inner workings of lipid membranes? This post-doc position is a chance to join the Holme group, a dynamic interdisciplinary team exploring lipid-based drug delivery at Chalmers University of Technology.
The Holme group is a new and dynamic interdisciplinary team working on several aspects of lipid-based drug delivery vectors. With this post doc position, we are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a passion for molecular dynamics simulations and membrane biophysics. The successful candidate with apply their skillset to carry out molecular dynamics simulations on a range of lipid systems currently being studied by PhD students and post docs.
About us
We are seven research groups within the Division of Chemical Biology, part of the Department of Life Sciences, working together at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and physics. Our collaborative research focuses on understanding nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids, and how they interact with cells.
The Holme group specialises in lipid-based nanoparticles. We investigate the composition and distribution of lipid molecules in both synthetic nanoparticles and naturally occurring ones, such as extracellular vesicles. Our research spans from ensemble measurements to single-molecule analysis, with the goal of designing new lipid nanoparticles for studying, diagnosing, and treating various diseases.
A key part of our work involves using neutron and X-ray scattering to explore the membrane biophysics and morphology of these self-assembled structures. We are also expanding into computational approaches, using in silico experiments to gain deeper insight into the structure and dynamics of lipid nanoparticles.
We seek candidates with the following qualifications:
- To qualify for the position of postdoc, you must hold a doctoral degree in physics, chemistry, biochemistry or a similar field (awarded no more than three years prior to the application deadline*)
- The successful candidate will have a high proficiency in all atom and coarse grain molecular dynamics simulations of lipid bilayers including using CHARMM-GUI and GROMACS.
- You will also need experience in biohpysical characterisation and microscopy techniques to study nanomaterial-biomembrane interactions.
- The position requires sound verbal and written communication skills in English. Swedish is not a requirement but Chalmers offers Swedish courses.
- You are expected to be somewhat accustomed to teaching, and to demonstrate good potential within research and education.
- The date shown in your doctoral degree certificate is the date we use, as this is the date you have met all requirements for the doctoral degree. Exceptions from the 3-year limit can be made for longer periods resulting from parental leave, sick leave or military service.
The following experience will strengthen your application:
- Meritorious experience includes experience in various MD tools such as VMD, PyTopol, and experience in extracting parameters such as lipid diffusion, area per lipid, radial distribution functions, membrane permeability etc from MD simulation data.
- Experience in working at synchrotron large scale facilities is also preferred.
What you will do
You will apply your skills in molecular dynamic simulations and biophysics/biochemistry to implement in silico expertise within the Holme group's various research projects.
This includes simulating membrane bilayers and their interactions with nanoparticles and proteins, and developing models of lipid nanoparticles for the study of lipid distribution in extracellular vesicle models.
You will work closely with postdocs and students in the group who are for example developing small angle scattering data analysis models, graphical user interfaces for the generation of lipid nanoparticle starting structures, and lipidomics profiles of vesicles extracted from whole cells.
The position may also include teaching on undergraduate and master's levels as well as supervising master's and/or PhD students to a certain extent. Another important aspect involves collaboration within academia and with society at large.
The position is meritorious for future research duties within academia as well as industry/the public sector.
What we offer
Chalmers provides a cultivating and inspiring working environment in the coastal city of Gothenburg. Read more about working at Chalmers and our benefits for employees.
Chalmers aims to actively improve our gender balance. We work broadly with equality projects, for example the GENIE Initiative on gender equality for excellence. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.
Read more about Sweden’s generous parental leave, subsidized day care, free schools, healthcare etc at Move To Gothenburg.
If Swedish is not your native language, Chalmers offers Swedish courses to help you settle in.
Contract terms
This postdoc position is a full-time temporary employment for two years with a possibility of a one-year extension.
Application Procedure
Please submit your application in English as PDF files according to the instructions below. Each file should not exceed 40 MB. Note: The system does not support Zip files.
1. CV
Name the document as: CV, [Your Surname]. Include the following:
- A comprehensive CV, including a complete list of publications.
- Details of previous teaching and pedagogical experience.
2. Personal Letter
Name the document as: Personal Letter, [Your Surname]. Limit the letter to 1–3 pages and include:
- A brief introduction about yourself.
- A summary of your previous research fields and key research outcomes.
- An outline of your future goals and research focus.
Use the button at the foot of the page to reach the application form.
Please note: The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the application is complete. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered.
Contact details to two references will be requested after the interview.
Application deadline: July 5th, 2025
For questions please contact: Margaret Holme, Assistant Professor, Chemical Biology, [email protected] 0761593003
We look forward to your application!
*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. ***
Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg conducts research and education in technology and natural sciences at a high international level. The university has 3100 employees and 10,000 students, and offers education in engineering, science, shipping and architecture. With scientific excellence as a basis, Chalmers promotes knowledge and technical solutions for a sustainable world. Through global commitment and entrepreneurship, we foster an innovative spirit, in close collaboration with wider society.
Chalmers was founded in 1829 and has the same motto today as it did then: Avancez – forward.
