PhD student in Genetics and Embryology

The Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute (MBW) experimentally addresses fundamental problems in molecular cell biology, integrative biology, and infection and immunobiology. State-of-the art and advanced methodologies are applied in a professional research environment characterized by its well-established international profile. The institute has 30 research groups with a research staff of 180, of which 65 are PhD students. Read more about MBW at www.su.se/mbw.

Project description

From one cell, our bodies emerge via coordinated cell division and differentiation events. We study how stem and progenitor cells in the embryo build our musculoskeletal and nervous systems, using model species including zebrafish, chicken, mouse, and human. During embryonic development, these cells integrate and process vast arrays of information from their genome, cell neighbors, and the extracellular environment, to construct complex tissue architectures. We aim to decode the genetic and epigenetic networks that link positional identity, cell multipotency, and cell mechanics during organ shaping, and discover how these processes are disrupted during congenital diseases. To study this, our laboratory uses classic and state-of-the-art approaches such as immunohistochemistry, FACS, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, in vivo genome editing, clonal lineage tracing, 3D/live imaging, DNA binding assays, ATAC, and HiC. 

Qualification requirements

In order to be admitted to postgraduate education, the applicant must have the general and specific entry requirements. The qualification requirements must be met by the deadline for applications.

You meet general entry requirements if you have completed a second-cycle degree, or completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

Specific entry requirements are described in the general syllabus for doctoral studies in the field of molecular biology. Master’s degree with practical experience in any of the following subjects: embryology, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, biophysics, bioinformatics, or a similar area. 

Selection

The selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to benefit from the training. The following criteria will be used to assess this capacity:

• documented knowledge in a relevant field of research
• capacity for analytical and creativ thinking
• initiative
• independence
• ability to collaborate
• written and oral proficiency in both Swedish and English.

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University.

About the employment

We offer a fixed-term employment as a doctoral student according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). The period of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for four years. As a doctoral student, you should primarily devote yourself to your own doctoral education, but the employment may include work with education, research and administration to a limited extent (maximum 20 %).

A new employment as a doctoral student is for a maximum of one year, the employment is then renewed for a maximum of two years at a time.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

For more information, please contact Alek Erickson, alek.erickson@su.se.

Application

Apply for the PhD student position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.