PhD Student in Bioinformatics

Stockholm University

Institution: Stockholm University – Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
Reference Number: SU FV-0897-26
Type of Employment: Temporary, Full-time (100% FTE)
Location: Stockholm, Stockholms län, Sweden
Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
Published: 1 April 2026

About Stockholm University and SciLifeLab

The Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics at Stockholm University, part of SciLifeLab, is a national center for molecular biosciences with a focus on health and environmental research. SciLifeLab combines advanced technical expertise with translational medicine and molecular bioscience and collaborates with Karolinska Institutet, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Uppsala University, and several other universities.

Project Description

Project: Data-driven Protein Structure Evolution

This PhD project investigates how protein domains evolve through sequence divergence, structural modifications, duplication, and recombination. The work integrates large-scale structural datasets, deep learning models, and comparative genomics to analyze protein structure evolution across the tree of life. Key project goals include:

1. Quantifying structural divergence within domains using deep learning–based embeddings.
2. Characterizing the emergence of novel domain architectures and identifying structural constraints.
3. Investigating lineage-specific expansion patterns, including roles of disorder, linkers, and repeat expansions.

This research will provide fundamental insights into protein structural diversification and the emergence of new folds and architectures.

Research Environment

The Elofsson group has two decades of expertise in protein structure prediction and evolution. The group includes five PhD students, one postdoc, and one senior researcher, collaborating with computational and experimental groups nationally and internationally.

One PhD position will be affiliated with the Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS) Research School, providing structured training in data science, machine learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The DDLS program, funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, focuses on:

• Cell and molecular biology
• Evolution and biodiversity
• Precision medicine and diagnostics
• Epidemiology and biology of infection

More information: DDLS Research School

Qualification Requirements

General Entry Requirements:

• Second-cycle degree, or 240 higher education credits (60 at second-cycle level), or equivalent knowledge in Sweden or abroad

Specific Entry Requirements for Bioinformatics:

• Courses totaling at least 90 credits in either:
  • At second-cycle level, 60 credits in Life Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or Bioinformatics, including a 30-credit thesis project
  • + Chemistry / Molecular Biology / Biotechnology
  • + Computer Science / Mathematics / Physics

Selection Criteria:

• Documented knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project
• Written and oral proficiency in English
• Analytical thinking, collaboration, creativity, initiative, and independence
• Evaluation based on previous experience, grades, degree project, references, interviews, and motivation letter

Employment Terms

• Fixed-term employment according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100)
• Maximum employment period: 4 years (full-time doctoral education)
• Employment may include up to 20% duties in education, research, and administration
• Initial employment: up to 1 year; renewal: up to 2 years at a time

Stockholm University promotes equal opportunities and a discrimination-free workplace.

Application Instructions

Apply via Stockholm University’s recruitment system. Attach:

• Personal letter
• CV
• Requested attachments specified in the application form

Ensure your application is complete and submitted before the deadline. Detailed instructions: How to Apply

Contact Information

• Project Contact: Professor Arne Elofsson – arne.elofsson@dbb.su.se
• PhD Program Info: Director of Doctoral Studies, Andreas Barth – andreas.barth@dbb.su.se

Union Representatives:

• ST/OFR – st@st.su.se
• SACO-S – saco@saco.se
• SEKO – sekodirekt@seko.se