PhD position in Hematopoiesis and stem cell biology Full-time NEW

PhD Position in Hematopoiesis and Stem Cell Biology

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

The research group of Sidinh Luc investigates fundamental mechanisms regulating hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) function and heterogeneity, transformation of normal HSCs into leukemic stem cells and cellular and molecular drivers of leukemia development. The research integrates experimental models, human patient samples, and advanced sequencing technologies, with the ultimate aim to bridge basic biology with clinical translation. The research group is part of the Division of Clinical Immunology at Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet.

The Doctoral Student Project and the Duties of the Doctoral Student

This doctoral project investigates how hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) heterogeneity and aging influence the development and characteristics of leukemic stem cells, with a focus on BCR-ABL1–driven leukemias such as CML and Ph+ ALL. The student will combine experimental and computational approaches to identify how distinct HSC subtypes contribute to disease initiation and progression. Duties include designing and performing experiments using flow cytometry, mouse models, and in vitro/in vivo assays, as well as applying single-cell sequencing and bioinformatics analyses. The doctoral student will analyze and present data, contribute to collaborative research activities, and participate actively in the scientific environment.

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:

• have been awarded a second-cycle/advanced/master qualification (i.e. master degree), or
• 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
• 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.

A) and B) can only be certified by the documentation requirement for doctoral education.

Skills and Personal Qualities

At least one year of hands-on experimental experience is required. Previous involvement in research projects related to hematopoiesis or hematology is considered an advantage.

Experience with animal models, advanced flow cytometry, sequencing-based molecular biology (omics) techniques, and bioinformatics is desirable.

The ideal candidate is highly motivated, reliable, and well-organized with a strong sense of initiative and ambition. The candidate should be intellectually curious, open to new ideas, and possess excellent communication and teamwork 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. 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.

KI applies a salary scale when setting salaries for doctoral students.