PhD position in Cellular models for developmental conditions

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

The position is available in the research group led by Senior Researcher Kristiina Tammimies at the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health. Tammimies lab focuses on understanding genetic and biological factors associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). The research group is part of the Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders at Karolinska Institutet (KIND) and shares laboratory space with other preclinical groups from the department at Biomedicum A04 quarters.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The doctoral project focuses on identifying the shared molecular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental conditions and craniofacial developmental abnormalities. The doctoral student will investigate these shared molecular pathways by using advanced cellular models and techniques such as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), 3D organoid models, and molecular profiling methods. The project will also focus on identifying molecules that can reverse the adverse molecular outcomes associated with these conditions.

The doctoral student will generate iPSC lines, culture these for two different 3D organoid models, and analyze the models using advanced multi-omics approaches. In addition, the student will perform laboratory experiments with key methods including drug optimization, cytotoxicity analyses, immunostaining, confocal microscopy, and data analysis.

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 candidate with a strong background in toxicology, molecular biology, biomedicine, or a related field (MSc degree). The candidate must have documented experience working with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and be capable of transforming fibroblasts into iPSCs. Experience with 3D organoid models is highly advantageous. Documented expertise in molecular biology techniques such as qPCR, Western blot, ELISA, and immunostaining is required. Knowledge of bioinformatics and prior experience using statistical programs such as R is considered a merit.

We are seeking a methodical and meticulous individual with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability and the candidate’s ability to fit into the group’s dynamic research environment.

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.

Learn more about the Department of Women's and Children's Health here

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