Doctoral (PhD) student position in microglia diversity and brain development/disorders - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

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

In the team of Professor Bertrand Joseph, we aim to understand how intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect the biological functions of microglia, resident immune cells of the brain, thereby affecting their ability to contribute to the development of the brain, or pediatric as well as adult brain disorders. Our research unit is part of the Institute of Environmental Medicine, at the Karolinska Institutet Solna campus (https://ki.se/en/imm/unit-of-toxicology).

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

Microglia fulfil multiple and contrasting functions in the brain from its development throughout the entire lifespan under normal conditions, but also in the context of brain disorders. How can microglia be multitasking? Common understanding revolves around microglia acquiring distinct reactive phenotypes upon exposure to extrinsic cues in their environment. However, we advocate intrinsic properties, with the existence of microglia subtypes, should be considered when studying the multitasking microglia. The project is focused on uncovering the roles for microglial diversity in brain development and autism spectrum disorders.

The doctoral student is expected to: lead the project under the supervision of the main supervisor and with support from co-supervisors; design, conduct and analyze the experimental studies of the project; write and revise scientific articles; complete doctoral training, including courses and other research-related activities; take part in weekly lab meetings and discuss science; actively participate in the lab’s journal clubs; present the project outcomes at internal seminars and international conferences; and collaborate on related projects led by other team members.

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 looking for an enthusiastic, highly motivated, and socially skilled candidate that enjoys working in a collaborative environment. The candidate should be able to work independently and have knowledge in how to ask and interpret scientific questions and to critically review the results. Since the applicant will work in a highly international environment good communication skills and proficiency in spoken and written English are essential. We are looking for candidates with a solid background in biochemistry, molecular and/or cell biology with a keen interest in neuroscience. Previous experience with cell culture, animal work, imaging, flow cytometry and/or bioinformatic will be considered an advantage for the position.

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.

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.

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.

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