Doctoral (PhD) student position in childhood cancer

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

Applications are invited for a PhD position in the field of childhood cancer in the group of Dr. Magdalena Paolino.

We apply multidisciplinary and innovative approaches to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis, with the aim of developing novel therapies. Our research focuses on exploring previously unrecognized roles of genes in physiology and disease, primarily in the areas of immunity, cancer, and metabolism (Nature 2021, Nature 2018, Cell 2015, Nature 2014; see our lab page for a full list of publications).

For this project, we will collaborate closely with the research group of pediatric oncologist Dr. Nikolas Herold, as well as other clinicians and researchers dedicated to pediatric cancer. Among our lab members, collaborators, and PhD co-supervisors, we offer the student access to a wide range of expertise and technical skills. With our research, we strive to contribute meaningfully to the understanding of human health and the development of new treatment strategies.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The research project aims to advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying pediatric cancers and to address the critical unmet medical need of identifying novel and clinically relevant targets for future therapies. In particular, the Ph.D. student will investigate novel genes and molecular pathways involved in regulating chemotherapy response, DNA damage repair, as well as in vivo tumor growth and metastasis.

To achieve this, the student will employ a variety of ex vivo and in vivo approaches, including cancer disease models (both primary and metastatic), analysis of human samples and patient cohorts, as well as cellular techniques. The project requires learning and applying diverse methodologies in which the group is specialized, including the use of cell cultures, in vivo cancer mouse models, viral-based gene-editing, FACS, histology, and molecular techniques.

The student will benefit from the setup, knowledge, and support provided by the supervisors' and co-supervisors’ labs but will work independently. The successful applicant will acquire both basic and specialized knowledge in childhood cancer, disease modeling, posttranslational modifications, and gene regulation. The project offers the opportunity for substantial training in modern biomedical research and the development of complementary skills to support both professional and personal growth.

The candidate is expected to take a strong lead in the project’s design, experimentation, data analysis, and interpretation, as well as in the presentation and publication of research findings. Responsibilities also include staying current with the literature, presenting data, and attending seminars, lab meetings, and journal clubs, while maintaining high scientific standards.

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 a highly motivated candidate with a strong scientific drive, preferably with a background in Molecular Biology, Molecular Medicine or Biomedicine. The applicant needs to have experience working in a research lab and be willing to perform animal research. Knowledge of in vivo disease modeling in mice, ubiquitination, and/or pediatric cancer research is advantageous. Experience with histology, cell culture (including gene-editing techniques using viral vectors), as well as FACS analysis, will also be considered assets.

A strong interest in disease modeling and translational medicine, along with a commitment to continuous professional development, is important. The ideal candidate should be scientifically adventurous and curiosity-driven, with a strong motivation to work and think independently, while also valuing and responding well to supervision. The ability to work in an interdisciplinary and international environment, along with strong interpersonal and communication skills (proficiency in spoken and written English), is required.

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://ki.se/en/meds/research-group-magdalena-paolino

https://ki.se/en/people/nikolas-herold

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