PhD Position in Glioblastoma Immunology Full-time NEW

PhD Position in Glioblastoma Immunology

The Sten Linnarsson Lab, part of the Unit of Molecular Neurobiology at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics (MBB), invites applications for a PhD student position. Our lab has a world-leading reputation for pioneering research on brain development using cutting-edge single-cell technologies. We are now focusing on unraveling the biology of glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive brain tumor, to identify new treatment targets.

The Research Group

Our research focuses on the cellular composition of the human brain and brain cancer. We use single-cell analysis to discover cell types, cell states, and lineages in the healthy human brain. We leverage these molecular atlases to map cells from human brain cancer, hoping to discover unique cell states present in tumors that could be targeted for therapy.

To achieve these goals, we have developed technologies for extremely sensitive and accurate detection of RNA and DNA in single cells. We use advanced molecular biology, large-scale DNA sequencing, microfluidics, and imaging. We use AI/ML to model molecular states, and build synthetic vectors to target and manipulate cell states in vivo. Ultimately, we hope to develop effective programmable therapies to treat brain cancer.

The Doctoral Student Project and the Duties of the Doctoral Student

This PhD project pursues to investigate immune dysfunction in glioblastoma (GBM) and develop novel immunotherapeutic strategies. Despite advances in cancer immunotherapy, GBM remains largely resistant to immune-based treatments, primarily due to its highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment that impairs antigen presentation and limits effective T-cell responses as tumor-infiltrating T cells exhibit dysfunctional behavior.

The first aim of the doctoral studies is to characterize the infiltrated T-cells phenotypes and investigate how their functional states are influenced by the local microenvironmental niches. To study the spatial immune landscape and T-cell clonal dynamics of GBM, single-cell transcriptomics and TCR sequencing using brain-patient samples will be performed and analyzed. Building on these findings, the candidate will evaluate a tumor reprogramming strategy designed to restore antigen presentation and enhance anti-tumoral T-cell responses. To this end, the student will establish a humanized orthotopic GBM mouse model using CD34⁺ hematopoietic stem cell engraftment and patient-derived tumor organoids to study tumor-immune interactions and assess possible therapeutic efficacy in vivo.

The candidate will perform a broad range of experimental tasks, including isolation and processing of human and murine tissues, advanced multiparametric flow cytometry, in vitro functional assays such as co-culture and cytotoxicity assays, and in vivo work using mouse models.

What Do We Offer?

You will join a vibrant, creative environment where interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged. Our lab offers access to state-of-the-art techniques and resources, providing an ideal platform to push the boundaries of research in glioblastoma immunology. You'll work closely with experts in the field, benefiting from mentorship and computational expertise to conduct impactful, high-quality research.

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 the 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 creative, self-driven candidate with strong interest in cancer immunology and brain biology, who works well in multidisciplinary teams and communicates effectively.

Requirements: A Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g. Biomedicine, Immunology) is required. Candidates should have solid hands-on laboratory experience and be able to work independently, with strong organizational skills and attention to data handling. High motivation, critical thinking, and the ability to design and interpret experiments are essential.

A strong background in tumor immunology and brain tumor biology is expected. Knowledge of single-cell transcriptomics, GMP environments, or drug development is advantageous. Experience with in vivo work and animal handling is required (including FELASA certification), as well as familiarity with humanized mouse models and orthotopic brain tumor models.

Extensive experience in cell isolation (human and mouse tissues), mammalian cell culture (preferably T cells and organoids), and advanced functional assays is required. Experience in genetic modification, viral vector work, and high-dimensional flow cytometry with data analysis is important. Programming skills (R/Python) are an advantage.

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

In this recruitment process, considerable emphasis will be placed on personal attributes, including the candidate's ability to collaborate, demonstrate initiative, and contribute to a dynamic research environment.

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.