Postdoctoral studies in single-cell and computational biology

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research? 

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Professor Francois Lallemend at the Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, to investigate the molecular landscape of the inner ear during development and under various physiological and pathological conditions. The research has direct implications for the development of regenerative therapies and for understanding sensory disorders linked to aging and auditory dysfunctions such as tinnitus. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research program that combines experimental models, patient-derived materials, and advanced technologies to explore the mechanisms that preserve auditory system homeostasis and how their disruption contributes to altered auditory perception.

Duties 

We are seeking a highly motivated Computational Biologist at the postdoctoral level to join our team. The primary responsibilities include bioinformatics analyses with a strong focus on single-cell RNA sequencing and next-generation single-cell barcode lineage tracing, as well as the interpretation of complex biological processes. A demonstrated interest in data visualization and large-scale data analysis is highly desirable.

The ideal candidate will have a keen interest in understanding complex biological systems, their development, and how disruptions in homeostasis contribute to pathological conditions. The position involves close collaboration with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and international partners. Active participation in other ongoing projects in the lab and clear communication of research findings to both specialized and general audiences are expected.

Additional responsibilities include: performing data quality control, management, and archival storage; analyzing large-scale datasets, developing code, and creating novel tools and methods for advanced data analysis; supporting ongoing research activities, contributing to manuscript and grant writing, and preparing presentations for scientific meetings; helping shape, maintain, and develop the group’s computational infrastructure.

Entry requirements

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in bioinformatics, statistics, and computational biology, with demonstrated expertise in statistical and bioinformatics software. The ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment and to communicate effectively with team members is essential. Candidates should be highly motivated, capable of working independently, and collaborative in nature.

A strong publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals is highly desirable. Proficiency in programming, particularly in R, Python, or other relevant languages, is required.

Qualified candidates should also meet the following criteria: a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in computational biology, or in biomedical sciences with a strong computational focus; proven ability to think creatively and solve complex problems with persistence and initiative; excellent communication skills, both written and oral; solid molecular and cell biology knowledge and a strong foundation in biomedical research; fluency in English, both spoken and written.

Scholarships for postdoctoral qualification can be established for foreign researchers who place their qualifications 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 to carry 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.

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. Here, we conduct innovative medical research and provide the largest range of biomedical 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. Several of the people you meet in healthcare are educated at KI. A close relationship with the health care providers is important for creating groundbreaking top quality education and research. Students and employees have free access to our modern gym facilities with trained staff on site.

Location

The position is based at the Department of Neuroscience in Solna, located within the state-of-the-art Biomedicum building. Biomedicum houses five biomedical research departments, fostering a vibrant and collaborative environment that bridges diverse disciplines and methodologies.

The role is situated within the Neurobiology of Sensory Systems research group, led by Professor Francois Lallemend. Our group focuses on uncovering the molecular and cellular mechanisms that maintain sensory system homeostasis, and how disruptions in these processes contribute to sensory dysfunction. The lab employs a broad range of techniques – including viral tracing, advanced single-cell approaches, and in vivo behavioral analyses – to dissect the organization and function of sensory circuits.

Lab web: ki.se/en/neuro/lallemend-lab

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.

Application process

An application must contain the following documents in English:

• A complete curriculum vitae, including date of the thesis defense, title of the thesis, previous academic positions, academic title, current position, and academic distinctions
• A complete list of publications (with at least 1 first author, in the relevant field)
• A summary of current work (no more than one page)
• A letter of intent (including the reasons you apply for the position)
• Name and email of two referees
• The application is to be submitted on the Varbi recruitment system.

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

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