Doctoral (PhD) student position in Translational Neuropharmacology

Do you want to contribute to improving human health?

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 a translational and multidisciplinary research group dedicated to advancing our understanding of neurological conditions, with a particular focus on Parkinson’s disease and depression. These conditions represent major challenges in neurology and psychiatry, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Parkinson’s disease is not only characterized by motor symptoms but is also frequently accompanied by non-motor manifestations, including depression, which significantly impacts patients’ quality of life and disease progression. Understanding the complex interplay between these disorders is crucial for developing effective therapies and improving patient outcomes.​

Our research integrates cellular and animal models with the analysis of patient-derived samples and biopsies. By combining these approaches, we aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying disease states and to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutically relevant targets. Our work spans from basic science to clinical translation, bridging gaps between laboratory discoveries and patient care. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of knowledge using the latest medical and scientific approaches, including advanced molecular techniques, neuroimaging, and innovative therapeutic strategies.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The doctoral student will lead the project "The Role of Intracellular Transport Pathways in α-Synuclein Pathology," with a particular focus on investigating nucleocytoplasmic transport mechanisms in Parkinson's disease and related synucleinopathies.​

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and conduct in vitro and ex vivo experiments using iPSC-derived neuronal models, post-mortem brain tissues, and transgenic mouse models, applying molecular biology, biochemical, and histological methods.​
• Perform advanced imaging and functional assays including fluorescence/confocal and STED microscopy, immunocytochemistry, and protein-protein interaction studies to assess α-synuclein pathology and karyopherin dynamics.​
• Conduct quantitative analyses of protein expression, subcellular localization, lipidomic profiles, and chromatin organization using qPCR, Western blotting, RNAscope, and mass spectrometry.​
• Analyse and interpret complex multi-modal datasets using rigorous statistical methods, effect size calculations, and scientific visualization techniques.​
• Present findings at lab meetings, seminars, and international conferences, and actively participate in manuscript preparation, doctoral coursework, and specialized training workshops.​

This position requires curiosity, precision, and commitment to advancing nucleocytoplasmic transport biology in synucleinopathies, with the aim of identifying novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for Parkinson's disease.

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

In addition to the points below, we are looking for someone with excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, the ability to work independently, and strong problem-solving skills. You take initiative and are motivated to develop new techniques and methods to drive the project forward, as well as having a strong curiosity and determination to explore complex scientific questions.

Required:

• Master’s degree in neuroscience, biology, or a related field
• Practical experience with cell culture and differentiation of mammalian and human iPSC lines, including lentiviral transduction and neuronal characterization​
• Experience in statistical analysis, including parametric, non-parametric, and mixed-effects models, using tools such as R, GraphPad Prism, or SPSS
• Proficiency in experimental techniques such as immunocytochemistry, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, qRT-PCR, protein characterization, and fluorophore-based protein analysis
• Experience with image analysis using confocal microscopy, FRET-FCS and STED, including quantitative image processing with ImageJ/Fiji​ and/or QuPath
• Skills in biochemical and functional assays, including protein purification and aggregation analysis
• Hands-on experience with brain tissue dissection, and organotypic slice culturing
• Commitment to research ethics and biosafety regulations​
• Willingness to seek feedback, continuously learn, and share knowledge with colleagues

Desirable:

• Practical knowledge of advanced methods in cell culture work
• Basic knowledge of lipidomics using mass spectrometry, and lipid droplet staining​
• Ability to analyse protein interactions, e.g., co-immunoprecipitation and assessment of subcellular localization​
• Proficiency in documenting and managing large and multi-modal datasets​
• Familiarity with manuscript preparation and publication ecosystems​
• Strong communication skills for presentations, scientific writing, and effective teamwork within a research group​
• Collaborative approach, with a proven ability to work well in multidisciplinary teams 

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.

Read more about the Department of Clinical Neuroscience
Read more about the research group you will be part of

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