项目介绍

2026年3月29日

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 Department of Laboratory Medicine consists of seven divisions that conduct both research and teaching. The department is involved in advanced research, encompassing both basic and applied research. All divisions operate in close collaboration with clinicians at the Karolinska University Hospital.  The research at the division of pathology is cross-boundary in its character and uses established and modern methods in approaching problems in the areas of bone biology, inflammatory and immunological conditions as well as certain degenerative diseases.

The doctoral student position is based at the Department of Laboratory Medicine (LabMed), the Division of Pathology in Flemingsberg and the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health (KBH) in Solna. Our labs at both LabMed and KBH are rich research environments with diverse research interests and teams of international researchers at doctoral and post-doctoral levels.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join the group of Associate Professor Sara Windahl at the pathology division. The Windahl Bone biology group aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that control bone strength, length and the immune system. In addition to the main supervisor, the student will have two co-supervisors: Associate Professor Dhifaf Sarhan (LabMed) and Dr. Phillip Newton (KBH). The future PhD student would work on a project investigating the mechanisms regulating longitudinal growth and the immune system, and spatial interactions between the immune- and stem cell niches in bone. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of laboratory work in the project and drive the project forward with the support of the supervisors. The PhD student will also take part in all research-related activities such as group meetings, departmental seminars,international meetings, supervision of other students and researchers, as well as contribute to common lab routines. Finally, the successful candidate will work to fulfill the course requirements of the PhD program as outlined in the relevant rules and documentation available at the ki.se website.

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 requirementYou 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 an enthusiastic person with a curious mind who is passionate about advancing knowledge and health through scientific research. You must be highly motivated and detail oriented.

Basic requirements:

The successful candidate should:

1. Hold a master’s degree or equivalent advanced studies in biomedicine, biotechnology, immunology, molecular biology or a related field
2. Have a curious attitude
3. Enjoy working in a team
4. Practical experience of standard techniques in molecular biology and cell biology
5. Good oral and written communication skills in English
6. Strong organizational skills, accuracy, reliability, and ability to keep accurate notes
7. Be structured and responsible
8. Be motivated to contribute to academic research

Meritorious competence:

1. Experience of working with mice
2. Programming skills in R, Python or similar for data analysis
3. Ability to work flexibly in a fast-paced research environment, proactive attitude and good collaborative skills
4. Experience of flourescence microscopy and/or flow cytometry

Terms and conditions

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