Doctoral (PhD) student position in Microbiome research - 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

Juan Du’s laboratory focuses on vaginal microbiome studies and microbe-host interactions. The group aims to understanding the contribution of the microbiome to normal physiology and pathophysiology and opens opportunities for development of novel therapies to for diseases related to gastroenterology and reproductive health. Juan Du has extensive experience in translational biology as well as broad expertise in microbiology. Juan Du and her group has been involved in many clinical projects, and has a broad scientific background related to infection and immunity, which provides a solid base to conduct related research

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The microbiome plays an important role in modulating our health. Vaginal microbes and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) share the same biological niche. We have previously found that bacterial vaginosis is related to a higher risk of HPV infection. Given that current studies are mostly cross-sectional with a narrow focus on either HPV infection or a single stage of pre-cancer, it is essential to establish longitudinal cohort studies that are well designed with large population sizes. It is also fundamental to identify commensal bacteria/probiotics with the potential to combat HPV infection and related diseases. The doctoral student will mainly be involved in four projects: 1. Profile the microbiome from women with HPV infection, different pre-cancer stages, and cervical cancer; 2. Demonstrate potential mechanisms responsible for interfering; or clearing HPV; 3. The interaction among vaginal microbes and its influence on cancer development and 4. Evaluate the mechanisms using three-dimensional (3D) models.

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

Due to the interests and on-going projects in the group, previous research experience and documented practical and technical skills related to women’s health is required, including: 1. Vaginal microbiota, especially translational studies with collaboration of clinic. 2. Anaerobic culture and sequencing of vaginal microbes. 3. Familiar with MALDI-TOF 3. Fungi culture and mechanism study related to fungi 4. Experience on mechanisms related to vaginal microbes interaction. 4. Data analysis with R or Python.

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.

https://staff.ki.se/people/juan-du

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