Doctoral (PhD) student position in Genetic Modification of NK cells

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.

We are looking for a PhD candidate to join our team Genetic Modification of NK cells for Optimized Functions against Cancer. 

The research group

The group Genetic Modification of NK cells for Optimized Functions against Cancer within the Cell&Gene Therapy group  is part of the Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) at Department of Medicine, Huddinge and the Competence Center for next-generation NK cell-based therapies. The Department of Medicine at Huddinge comprises five units, six core facilities and, around 80 independent research groups. The Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) is a research unit within the Department of Medicine Huddinge which brings together basic and clinical research competences to pursue cutting-edge research improving the understanding of mechanisms involved in normal and malignant hematopoiesis.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The doctoral project focuses on advancing NK cell-based immunotherapies through genetic engineering and functional characterization. The student will develop and optimize strategies using cutting-edge techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, lentiviral vector production and characterization, transduction and transfection of cell lines and primary cells, flow cytometry, primary cell culture, and a broad range of molecular and biochemical assays, including relevant techniques for functional and mechanistic studies. The project aims to explore novel approaches to enhance NK cell function for therapeutic applications in hematological malignancies.

As a doctoral student, you will be responsible for planning, performing, and analyzing experiments, manage common laboratory reagents, and maintain accurate experimental records. While you will contribute to ongoing projects in the laboratory, you will also under guidance develop and lead your own research project within the scope of NK cell immunotherapy. The doctoral education also includes writing scientific manuscripts and presenting research results in both national and international contexts. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with experienced researchers in a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment, combining molecular biology, immunology, and translational research.

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 highly motivated, responsible, innovative and organized candidate with experience in genetic engineering of immune cells, flow cytometry analyses and isolation and culture of primary cells. Completed masterprogram in molecular biology, biochemistry or equivalent, as well as previous experience in a research environment and hands-on experience with cell culture are required. Good knowledge of the English language is required. Prior knowledge in cell biology and in vitro functional assays are meriting. The applicant must be able to work flexibly and in a high-paced research environment.

Essential Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field
• Hands-on experience in isolation and culture of primary cells and standard cell culture techniques
• Experience in immunology or developmental cell biology
• Practical experience with molecular biology assays such as PCR, qPCR, and related techniques
• Good proficiency in spoken and written English
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, reliability, and ability to maintain accurate records 

Meriting Expertise:

• Familiarity with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and other genetic engineering techniques
• Proficiency in flow cytometry (including multi-color panels)
• Experience in lentiviral or AAV vector production, virus characterization, and transduction/ transfection of cell lines and primary cells
• Knowledge of functional assays and biochemical characterization methods
• Coding experience in R or Python for data analysis
• Ability to work flexibly in a high-paced research environment, proactive attitude, and strong collaborative skills 

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. Your application needs to be written in English.

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.

Genetic Modification of NK cells for Optimized Functions against Cancer – Arnika Wagner team

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