PhD Position in Dermatology at Lund University – Sweden

Summary

The PhD position at Lund University’s Department of Clinical Sciences Lund focuses on peptidomics of wound fluid to discover endogenous peptides involved in infection, inflammation and tissue repair. The project is embedded in an international, interdisciplinary environment within the Biomedical Centre, collaborating with BioMS and proteomics experts. The four‑year, full‑time fixed‑term appointment offers public‑sector employment benefits, generous leave and a pension scheme, as well as flexible working hours. The successful candidate must hold a Master of Science in Engineering in Biotechnology (pharmaceutical or molecular focus) and possess practical experience in biochemistry, mass‑spectrometry, peptide biology and antibacterial assays, together with strong Swedish and English language skills. The role includes experimental planning, method development, LC‑MS/MS analysis, bioinformatic processing, and dissemination of results.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Clinical Sciences Lund
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Dermatology
Research Area	Peptidomics of wound fluid
Degree Required	Master of Science in Engineering in Biotechnology (Pharmaceutical or Molecular Biotechnology)
Experience	Experience in basic biochemistry, peptide biology, MS data analysis, antibacterial assays
Funding	Fixed-term PhD studentship (salary)
Contract Duration	Four years (48 months)
Language	Swedish and English

About the Project

The project aims to identify and characterize bioactive endogenous peptides in wound fluid that modulate infection, inflammation and healing. By developing sample preparation, enrichment and LC‑MS/MS workflows, and applying advanced bioinformatic tools, the PhD student will uncover peptide patterns and proteolytic signatures, then test selected candidates in antimicrobial and immunomodulatory assays to evaluate their therapeutic potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct experiments
• Develop and optimise sample preparation, peptide enrichment and fractionation methods
• Perform LC‑MS/MS analyses using DDA and DIA approaches
• Execute bioinformatic and statistical analyses of peptidomic datasets
• Characterise peptides in microbiological and cell‑based assays
• Document, quality assure and compile research results
• Present and publish findings in scientific forums
• Participate in group seminars, collaborations and other scientific activities
• Complete required doctoral education courses

Required Skills

• Basic biochemistry techniques including SDS‑PAGE and LC‑MS/MS
• Knowledge of peptide biology and peptidomics
• Experience with MS data analysis software such as FragPipe and DIA‑NN
• Programming skills in Python
• Conducting antibacterial assays (dilution or diffusion)
• Proficiency in Swedish and English (spoken and written)
• Collaborative teamwork and high accuracy

Who Should Apply

Applicants who have a Master of Science in Engineering in Biotechnology (with a focus on pharmaceutical or molecular biotechnology), solid laboratory experience in biochemistry and mass‑spectrometry, knowledge of peptide biology and peptidomics, programming skills in Python, and fluency in both Swedish and English. Candidates with collaborative skills, high accuracy and responsibility, and an interest in translational dermatology research are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Special employment benefits as a public authority employee
• Generous annual leave
• Attractive occupational pension scheme
• Flexible working hours supporting work‑life balance

About the Employer

Lund University is a public Swedish university. The position is located in the Biomedical Centre, Division of Dermatology and Venereology, within the Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, part of the Faculty of Medicine. The department collaborates closely with Skåne University Hospital, Region Skåne and industry partners, fostering translational research in dermatology and related fields.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the position start?

The planned starting date is 1 December 2026, or as otherwise agreed.

What is the duration of the contract?

It is a fixed‑term full‑time position for four years (48 months).

Which languages must the applicant be proficient in?

Both Swedish and English, spoken and written, are required.

What degree is required for this PhD position?

A Master of Science in Engineering in Biotechnology (Pharmaceutical or Molecular Biotechnology).

What benefits are offered to the PhD student?

Special employment benefits, generous annual leave, an occupational pension scheme and flexible working hours.