Doctoral position in precision cancer immunotherapy

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

Our research delves into how the immune system engages with cancer and why it sometimes struggles to stop tumors from growing. By uncovering the signals and conditions that suppress immune activity inside tumors, we work to develop more effective and finely tuned immunotherapies for patients. We also strive to identify biomarkers that can predict how well an individual will respond to treatment, paving the way for more personalized and precise cancer care. Together, these efforts advance our understanding of how to harness and strengthen the body’s own defences, opening new avenues for transforming cancer treatment.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

This PhD project explores how natural killer (NK) cells contribute to immune surveillance in solid cancers. Using a combination of patient data, experimental model systems, and modern imaging and computational approaches, the project aims to understand when and how NK cells can effectively target tumor cells, and how this response might be enhanced for future therapies.

As a doctoral student, you will receive broad training in cancer immunology and translational research. You will work with patient samples, public datasets, and experimental models, gaining hands-on experience in laboratory methods as well as data analysis. The PhD education also includes coursework, active participation in the research environment, scientific writing, and teaching or supervision of junior students.

Over time, you are expected to develop increasing independence, critical thinking skills, and a strong foundation for a future career in academic or translational cancer research.

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:

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 curious, well‑organized, and self‑driven candidate who enjoys problem‑solving and teamwork.
• Good communication skills, basic competence in scientific writing, and a willingness to engage with both experimental and data‑driven research are essential.
• Applicants should have a strong interest and experience in biomedical research, particularly cancer biology and immunology.
• Prior experience with laboratory work, data analysis, or experimental research is important.
• Previous exposure to methods in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, or bioinformatics is desired.
• Previous experience in specific methodology including flow cytometry, PCR, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, cell culture of cancer cells, isolation and culture of human primary leukocytes is particularly meritorious.

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.

Apply at the latest 26th May.

Type of employment: PhD placement

Contract type: Full time

First day of employment: Up on Agreement

Salary: Monthly salary

Number of positions: 1

Full-time equivalent: 100

City: Solna

County: Stockholms län

Country: Sweden

Reference number: STÖD 2-1934/2026