Doctoral student (Ph.D) position in mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegeneration - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

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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

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics announces the opportunity to join the group of Professor Nils-Göran Larsson, under the supervision of Dr. Roberta Filograna, as a PhD student in mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegeneration. The group studies the role of mitochondria in health and disease using a combination molecular/biochemical methods and omics analysis employing using a variety of model systems, ranging from patient-derived samples to genetically modified mice models. The Larsson group is part of the Division of Molecular Metabolism at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics and is located at the newly built and modern laboratory Biomedicum at Solna campus of Karolinska Institutet. Our research team conduct high quality mitochondrial research having exceptional track record leading to influential publications in high impact journals. We offer an outstanding research environment and a close interaction between basic science and clinical science and diagnostics at the Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases (CMMS) at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Excellent access to the most advanced resources in molecular and cell biology is available at the department and at the national core facilities at the Science for Life Laboratory.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

We are looking for a highly motivated doctoral student interested in working in mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease (PD). PD is a common neurodegenerative disorder caused by the preferential loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the Substantia nigra of the midbrain. Growing evidence indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction is heavily implicated in both sporadic and familial forms of the disease, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Our research aims to unravel how mitochondrial fitness is involved in PD pathophysiology and in the maintenance of dopamine neurons by employing a broad set of biochemical and molecular analyses, cutting-edge technologies and genetically modified mouse models.

The successful candidate is expected to participate in the experimental design, experimentation, analysis, and presentation/publication of research results. The PhD student is expected to be part of the group and to develop in accordance with the common group goals and research interests of the division.

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

Applications are invited from individuals of the highest calibre with strong interest in neurodegeneration. A background in neuroscience and/or mitochondrial biology is favored. Previous experience working with mouse models is an advantage but not required. Experience in experimental work in the field of molecular biology is required. Experience in handling large data, and bioinformatics skills are considered a merit. Excellent knowledge of the English language, both oral and written, is a requirement. The applicant should possess good interpersonal skills, as well as the capacity to work independently, and to reflect critically on scientific output. Personal suitability is of great importance when evaluating the applicants.

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.

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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