Doctoral (PhD) student position in the project “Role of Mechanotransduction in Breast Cancer” - 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

Staffan Strömblad’s group is leading in cell-matrix-interactions. This includes how the tissue stiffening in cancer via mechanotransduction affects cancer cell signaling, gene expression and cancer phenotypes. We have an interactive environment where we combine state-of-the-art experimental methods and models with computational data analysis and continuously exchange knowledge and results. Beyond the research group, the department of biosciences and nutrition offers regular seminars and journal clubs and Strömblad provides his national and international networks. For example, Strömblad is the Director of the Breast Cancer Theme Center at KI, offering regular mini-symposia and networking opportunities.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The student will combine experimental studies with bioinformatic analysis to define how the matrix stiffness controls mRNA-translation to drive breast cancer progression. This includes identifying the responsible mechano-signaling, the regulated genes, which of these genes contributes to breast cancer progression and their relation to patient status and outcome. The project is run in collaboration with associate professor Ola Larsson at SciLifeLabs/KI, expert in mRNA-translation.

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

The student is highly motivated with a master’s degree in the Life Sciences and holds substantial experience in both experimental and computational analysis methods. Experience is desired in bioinformatics, cancer biology, cell and molecular biology. The successful candidate has a strong drive and analytical capability, excellent communication skills and works well individually as well as in collaboration. The student takes own responsibility and initiatives to learn and progress the project while asking for help when needed.

Terms and conditions

The doctoral student will be employed on a doctoral studentship maximum 4 years full-time.

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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)
- Three letters of reference

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.

Research group: https://ki.se/en/bionut/cell-biology-of-cancer-staffan-stromblad-0
BRECT: https://ki.se/en/research/brect-breast-cancer-theme-center

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