Scholarship in Oligonucleotide Therapeutics for Tandem Repeat Diseases

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

The Department of Laboratory Medicine consists of seven divisions and is active in many areas of Laboratory Medicine. The department is involved in advanced basic scientific, clinical and epidemiological research. The department is one of the largest departments of education at Karolinska Institutet.

The Division of Biomolecular and Cellular Medicine (BCM) is one of the divisions of the Department of Laboratory Medicine. BCM provides the facilities needed for cell-molecular biology research and the possibility to perform research in vivo. With its special position between basic science and clinical application, BCM has a unique opportunity to translate advances in biomedical research into new methods to diagnose and treat diseases.

About the research group

In the Molecular Cell Biology and Gene Therapy Research Unit, led by Rula Zain, Associate Professor of Chemical Biology, we are at the forefront of genetic disease research.

We are looking for a passionate and driven research student to join our dynamic team. We aim to advance our understanding of gene mutations in the form of nucleotide expansions and develop innovative therapeutic solutions.

Your mission

In this role, you will have a central role in the research project, in particular in data generation and analysis of molecules aiming to influence somatic gene instability in a model of Huntington's disease. You will analyze trinucleotide DNA fragments using advanced PCR amplification techniques followed by bioinformatic analysis.

You will also work with various lab techniques, including sample preparation, DNA purification and capillary electrophoresis for DNA fragment length analysis (FLA). In addition, you will have the opportunity to get involved in the development of methods to administer therapeutic oligonucleotides.

As part of our research team, you will be able to significantly contribute to developing computational tools and analytical methods. You will also present your results to peers, and supervisors at weekly group meetings.

Your profile

We are looking for a person with a strong passion for molecular biology and genetic diseases, and an ambition to deepen your scientific skills. Knowledge of data processing and statistical analysis are essential skills for this role. Previous experience in trinucleotide diseases and in vivo experiments is desirable.

Your willingness to learn new techniques, including DNA isolation from different tissues, PCR with multiple fluorophores and capillary electrophoresis, will be highly valued. Practical communication skills are essential; you will work as part of a well-functioning team with whom you will share your results and insights.

Applicants should currently hold or be in the process of obtaining a Master's degree in biology, biochemistry, or related field. The ability to function well within a collaborative team environment while demonstrating the ability to work independently when needed is paramount.

Benefits:

As a fellow in our group, you will have the opportunity to develop both personally and professionally. You will gain hands-on experience in advanced molecular biology therapeutic applications within an inclusive and innovative research atmosphere. Working alongside experienced scientists and mentors, you will develop skills in data analysis, experimental techniques and effective scientific communication.

About Scholarship

Scholarships for undergraduate and graduate level education can be established for foreign researchers who place their qualifications in Sweden. These scholarships aim to provide students at the undergraduate or graduate level with early practical experience of research work, in order to strengthen the link between education and research and encourage future studies at the doctoral level.

The scholarships can be granted either for studies in an existing course or for a shorter period of practical research experience (documented in an individual study plan/research plan) for admitted students at the undergraduate or graduate level. The scholarship may be awarded for up to 12 months (divided into a maximum of four courses/periods) during the study period. Decisions on scholarships may be made for a maximum of six months at a time.

To be eligible for an undergraduate scholarship at KI, you must:

• Be admitted (and registered in Ladok) to a first or second cycle program at KI or
• Be admitted (and registered) to an undergraduate or graduate program at a university with which KI has a collaboration

This advertised scholarship is valid for 6 months.

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. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.

Location: Flemingsberg

Application

The application should consist of the following documents, written in English or Swedish:A Complete CV
Personal letter
A summary of current work, if any (maximum one page)

Welcome to apply at the latest 6 June

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