PhD student position: Translational research in metabolic disorders Full-time NEW

PhD Student Position: Translational Research in Metabolic Disorders

Uppsala University, Disciplinary Domain of Medicine and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences

The Department of Medical Sciences is a large clinical institution with more than 250 employees and over 900 additional coworkers connected via the Uppsala University Hospital. The Department of Medical Sciences has a broad research profile with strong research groups in a number of different areas. The research carried out at the department is performed in close connection with the clinical activities at the Uppsala University Hospital, which includes both basic studies on the causes of a variety of illnesses and the development and evaluation of improved diagnostics and new treatment methods.

Project description:

The Unit for Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism conducts clinical as well as experimental research projects focused on type 2 diabetes and obesity. We have well-established interdisciplinary collaborations locally and nationally/internationally (for example an SSF center and an EU Horizon program).

Type 2 diabetes is a growing public health problem worldwide. The disease is characterized by impaired insulin production combined with insulin resistance. Obesity plays an important role in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. In addition to storing energy, adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ and communicates with other organs, of which the brain is of particular importance.

The overall purpose of this project is to identify novel mechanisms in the interplay between the brain and peripheral tissues, particularly adipose tissue and the gastrointestinal tract, that may contribute to insulin resistance, obesity and type-2 diabetes.

We use different methods:

• Imaging of the brain and other organs in humans in vivo, during hormonal/metabolic tests
• Investigations of dynamic regulation of different hormonal systems in the development of type 2 diabetes
• Experimental studies of metabolism and other functions in human adipose tissue. These include cellular signaling, pharmacology and omics methods.

We will perform functional analyses of tissue samples, for example regarding morphology, neural activity and neurotransmitters, cell differentiation, glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin signaling and the expression of relevant genes important for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Clinical studies using hormonal challenges are performed on patients and healthy individuals, often with simultaneous imaging of activity in the brain and other organs using PET and MRI techniques. These studies are expected to lead to new methods for the prevention and treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Duties:

The main task of a PhD student is to engage in research projects and postgraduate courses (30 credits). You will collect, analyze, compile and present results from blood and tissue samples and clinical examinations. Participation in experimental laboratory work and in clinical assessments of metabolism and hormones. The tasks may also include teaching and some departmental work, however, up to a maximum of 20% of the working time.

Requirements:

• Hold a Master's (second-cycle) degree in medical sciences, biomedicine or similar
• Have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master's level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• Have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way.

Applicants must also have:

• Good ability to collaborate but also work independently
• Good analytical skills, personal drive and flexibility
• Excellent English skills, both spoken and written

Additional qualifications:

• Experience in cell biology methods and imaging methods in vitro and/or in vivo.
• In-depth studies in metabolic/endocrine diseases.
• Experience in experimental/translational research in energy metabolism, in particular hormonal regulation at the cell/tissue level.
• We put much emphasis on personal qualities such as accuracy and responsibility as well as good communication and organizing skills.

About the employment:

The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100%. Starting date as agreed. Placement: Uppsala.

For further information about the position please contact: Professor Jan Eriksson, jan.eriksson@medsci.uu.se or Associate Professor Maria Joao Pereira, maria.pereira@medsci.uu.se

Please submit your application by June 26, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/1970

Attach a CV and contact details for two references.