Postdoctoral Researcher in Nanotoxicology

Do you want to contribute to improving human health?

Graphene-based materials and other two-dimensional (2D) materials hold great promise in a range of biomedical and other applications. However, the biocompatibility of these materials needs to be carefully evaluated [ACS Nano. 2018;12(11):10582-10620]. The Unit of Molecular Toxicology at the Institute of Environmental Medicine has a long track record in nanosafety research with emphasis on the assessment of nano(bio)material effects on the immune system; systems biology approaches are also applied. We are now recruiting a post doc in the EU-funded Graphene Flagship for studies of 2D materials and the human immune system.

Your mission

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a PhD degree in cell- or molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, or toxicology. Experience with the following techniques is required: maintenance of primary cell cultures and cell lines, confocal and light microscopy, flow cytometry, and other standard cell- and molecular biology techniques as well as standard microbiology assays. Previous experience of working with single-cell analysis techniques, e.g., mass cytometry is an advantage. In addition, the successful candidate should be well acquainted with common techniques for physicochemical characterization of nanomaterials. Excellent communication skills (English) and an ability to interact with other members of the laboratory, and with members of the Flagship consortium, are essential. Previous post doc experience and a strong publication record are advantageous.

Your profile

Qualified to be employed as a post doc is one who has obtained a doctorate or has equivalent scientific competence in cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, or toxicology. Applicants who have not completed a doctorate at the end of the application period may also apply, provided that all requirements for a completed degree are met before the (intended) date of employment (documentation required). Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with other post docs and students of the laboratory and with other consortium partners in the pan-European Graphene Flagship, are deemed essential qualities.

The successful applicant will work at the Unit of Molecular Toxicology at the Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet. The post doc will focus on the biological impact of 2D materials from various sources using mainly in vitro model systems including primary human immune cells. The post doc will also participate in joint activities in the Flagship project including consortium meetings and the preparation of reports in the project.

What do we offer?

A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. 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. At KI, you get to meet researchers working with a wide range of specialisms and methods, giving you ample opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience with the various scientific fields within medicine and health. It is the crossover collaborations, which have pushed KI to where it is today, at the forefront of global research. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several benefits through our collective agreement.

Location: Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solna/Stockholm

Application

The post doc application must contain the following documents (in English, not Swedish):

Curriculum vitae, including date of PhD defense, previous academic position(s), current position, and list of laboratory skills, and a description of any previous participation in EU funded project(s) or other large consortia (max. 5 pages);
List of publications, including original articles and reviews (do not send reprints);
Statement of current & future research interests and/or future plans (max. 1 page);

At least two signed letters of recommendation from current or former supervisors (submit scanned copies) (note: it is not sufficient to only list the names of referees).

Want to make a difference? Join us and contribute to better health for all