PhD in Tumor Immunology

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

To be a doctoral student means to devote oneself to a research project under supervision of experienced researchers and following an individual study plan. For a doctoral degree, the equivalent of four years of full-time doctoral education is required.

The research group

We are looking for a highly motivated individual to join the group of Senior Lecturer Dhifaf Sarhan. Sarhan group’s mission is to develop novel immunotherapies for cancer. The research focuses on investigating innate immune memory mechanisms to equip Natural killer cells (NK cells) with immune memory features against solid tumors. The position is based in the Division of Pathology at ANA Futura, Karolinska Institutet, Flemingsberg Campus, and in collaboration with A*STAR Singapore Immunology Network (A*STAR SIgN). Through collaborations with clinicians and core facilities, basic and translational researchers, the group has access to new world-class unique infrastructure for developing new therapeutic strategies and studying the efficacy and safety of novel treatments in a translational setting, and later in clinical trials.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

It is increasingly clear by evidence developed by us and elsewhere that a subset of Natural Killer cells, namely adaptive (a)NK cells, acquire immunological memory. Prior priming with tumor-associated peptides enhances specific cytotoxicity and increases expression of homing receptors like CXCR2, facilitating aNK cell infiltration into the TME. This doctoral project, "Studies of adaptive NK cells in solid tumors," aims to understand how aNK cells recognize and remember tumor antigens and resist immunosuppression within solid tumors. You will investigate the molecular mechanisms driving aNK cell memory formation, their interactions within the TME, and their potential for immunotherapeutic applications.

The applicant must be able to work independently as well as integrate well into the group, and like to work closely in a team. The Ph.D. studies correspond to 4 years of full-time studies and include laboratory work as well as preclinical work with in vivo models, general and project-related research courses, active participation in seminars, and presenting results at seminars and meetings.

What do we offer?

A creative and inspiring environment full of expertise and curiosity. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. As a doctoral student you are offered an individual research project, a well-educated supervisor, a vast range of elective courses and the opportunity to work in a leading research group. Karolinska Institutet collaborates with prominent universities from all around the world, which ensures opportunities for international exchanges. You will be employed on a doctoral studentship which means that you receive a contractual salary. Employees also have access to our modern gym for free and receive reimbursements for medical care.

Eligibility requirements for doctoral education

In order to participate in the selection for a doctoral position, you must meet the following general (A) and specific (B) eligibility requirements at latest by the application deadline.

It is your responsibility to certify eligibility by following the instructions on the web page Entry requirements (eligibility) for doctoral education.

A) General eligibility requirement

You meet the general eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

1. have been awarded a second-cycle/advanced/master qualification (i.e. master degree), or
2. have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the advanced/second-cycle/master level, or
3. have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.*

Follow the instructions on the web page Entry requirements (eligibility) for doctoral education.

*If you claim equivalent knowledge, follow the instructions on the web page Assessing equivalent knowledge for general eligibility for doctoral education.

B) Specific eligibility requirement

You meet the specific eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

- Show proficiency in English equivalent to the course English B/English 6 at Swedish upper secondary school.

Follow the instructions on the web page English language requirements for doctoral education.

Verification of your documents Karolinska Institutet checks the authenticity of your documents. Karolinska Institutet reserves the right to revoke admission if supporting documents are discovered to be fraudulent. Submission of false documents is a violation of Swedish law and is considered grounds for legal action.

(A) and (B) can only be certified by the documentation requirement for doctoral education.

Skills and personal qualities

We are seeking a highly talented and enthusiastic doctoral candidate with a M.Sc. degree or equivalent and a background in immunology and experience in cell culture, flow cytometry, imaging, and experience in in vitro assays used to study immune cell function. Basic knowledge in immunology is a requirement, and experience in isolation and expansion of cytotoxic immune cells is a merit.

The successful candidate should be self-motivated and able to keep herself/himself informed on developments of the relevant research field, have excellent communication and organizational skills, and the ability to work productively and dynamically in a team. The applicant should integrate smoothly into the team, enjoy close collaboration, and actively contribute to a positive team environment, hence, emphasis is put on personal suitability.

Terms and conditions

The doctoral student will be employed on a doctoral studentship maximum 4 years full-time.

Application process

Submit your application and supporting documents through the Varbi recruitment system. Use the button in the top right corner and follow the instructions. We prefer that your application is written in English, but you can also apply in Swedish.

Your application must contain the following documents:

- A personal letter and a curriculum vitae
- Degree projects and previous publications, if any
- Any other documentation showing the desirable skills and personal qualities described above
- Documents certifying your general eligibility (see A above)
- Documents certifying your specific eligibility (see B above)

Selection

A selection will be made among eligible applicants on the basis of the ability to benefit from doctoral education. The qualifications of the applicants will be evaluated on an overall basis.

Applications will be reviewed continuously, and suitable candidates may be selected before the application deadline.

Karolinska Institutet uses the following bases of assessment:

- Documented subject knowledge of relevance to the area of research
- Analytical skill
- Other documented knowledge or experience that may be relevant to doctoral studies in the subject.

All applicants will be informed when the recruitment is completed.

Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy Group – Dhifaf Sarhan

Want to make a difference? Join us and contribute to better health for all