Postdoctoral studies in applied developmental neurobiology - stem-cell based modelling of schizophrenia focusing on genetic engineering

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Karolinska Institutet, department of Physiology and Pharmacology

At the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology we conduct internationally acclaimed, high-quality research in Physiology, Pharmacology, Anaesthesiology and Intensive care. We have around 400 employees, 30 research groups, and 90 doctoral students. Our research fields include cellular signalling, cardiovascular and respiratory systems, muscle physiology, neuropsychopharmacology, neuroinflammation, pharmacogenetics, regenerative medicine as well as renal system, anaesthesiology and intensive care. Our collaboration with the clinics at Karolinska University Hospital provides unique opportunities for translational research within our domains. More information about research at the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology web page.

Research group

A postdoctoral fellowship is available in the laboratory of Carl M. Sellgren at the department of Physiology and Pharmacology at Karolinska Institutet. The group focuses on identifying mechanisms that govern neurodevelopmental processes in health and disease. The models are based on induced pluripotent stem cells collected from patients in the clinic which are then used to generate 2D neural cells and 3D brain organoids. We study both genetic and environmental risk factors and apply different molecular biology techniques and single cell omics for characterizations. The group also consists of a clinical unit (part of the Karolinska Schizophrenia Project) that performs skin biopsies for generation of induced pluripotent stem cells as well as collection of tissue and brain imaging for in vivo validations. We are involved in several international collaborations and are funded by several agencies.

Duties

The postdoctoral fellow will work on generating genetically engineered iPSC lines and use them to carry out CRISPR screens in relevant 2D cells and brain organoid models to dissect the contribution of neuropsychiatric risk variants. Analyses of single cell multiome data will be supported by computational experts within the group. The work will be guided by a more detailed research plan and performed in close collaboration with a PhD student. The fellow will work independently and lead this part of the project with freedom to modify the original research plan as needed. Ongoing support will be available from the PI and the senior lab manager. 

Entry requirements

Postdoctoral scholarships may be established for foreign researchers who pursue their merit in Sweden. The purpose of scholarships for postdoctoral qualification is to promote internationalization and contribute to research qualification after a doctorate or equivalent.
A scholarship for carrying out postdoctoral research can be granted for a maximum of two years within a four year period following the receipt of a doctoral degree or equivalent.
To be eligible for a postdoctoral scholarship, the person must have obtained a doctorate or a foreign degree deemed to be equivalent to a doctorate. 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) start date of the post doctoral education.

The head of the department determines whether their previous training and scholarly qualifications correspond to a Swedish doctorate or higher.

Other requirements

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent postdoctoral researcher with a strong theoretical and practical background in cellular and molecular neurobiology. Previous experience working with CRISPR technologies including screens in mammalian model systems is a pre-requisite. Previous experience with handling stem cells and generating brain organoids is highly desirable but not an absolute requirement. In addition, experience with other assays that can be applied to our models will also be considered. The candidate should be highly goal-oriented, possess problem-solving skills and should be able to work well in a team.

Location: Campus Solna.

Type of scholarship

The amount is tax free and it is set for twelve months at a time, paid out on a six months basis. In exceptional cases, shorter periods may be acceptable. There is flexibility regarding total duration within 1-2 years.

Application process

An application must contain the following documents in English or Swedish:

• A complete curriculum vitae, including date of the thesis defence, title of the thesis, previous academic positions, academic title, current position, academic distinctions, and committee work
• A complete list of publications
• A summary of current work (no more than one page)
• Verification from the thesis defense committee or the equivalent (only if the thesis defense is scheduled within three months after the application deadline).

The application is to be submitted on the Varbi recruitment system.

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