Research Assistants in Adipocyte Systems Biology

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

The Rydén and Mejhert Laboratory investigates how alterations in human white adipocyte function contribute to cardiometabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and atherosclerosis. Our multidisciplinary team comprises 15–20 members and includes postdoctoral fellows, PhD and master’s students, and technical staff, conducts cutting-edge translational research. We are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a comprehensive pre-clinical laboratory and a dedicated clinical research center, enabling seamless integration from basic science to clinical application.

Your mission

We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious research assistant to join our team for an exciting project investigating mitochondrial function in adipocytes. The focus of the project is a poorly characterized protein localized to adipocyte mitochondria, predicted to act as an oxidoreductase. Our preliminary findings show that loss of this protein impairs insulin-stimulated conversion of glucose into fatty acids. In addition, mass spectrometry-based tracing of glucose reveals reduced labeling of TCA cycle intermediates, suggesting a broader defect in mitochondrial glucose metabolism.

The successful candidate will dissect the molecular and metabolic functions of this protein using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches. This includes leveraging our existing metabolomic tracing datasets to map altered metabolic pathways and analyzing an adipocyte-specific knockout mouse model to evaluate systemic metabolic consequences. Specifically, the project will integrate cutting-edge cell biology techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing (e.g., CRISPRi/a, base editing), confocal microscopy, and metabolic flux analysis in human adipocytes. These in vitro studies will be complemented by comprehensive in vivo metabolic phenotyping, including metabolic cage experiments and glucose and insulin tolerance tests in knockout mice. To gain mechanistic insights, the candidate will lead transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of both human adipocytes and mouse tissues.

This position is embedded in a vibrant and interdisciplinary research environment with strong links to clinical studies and translational metabolic research. It offers outstanding opportunities for scientific growth, collaboration, and career development.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated research assistant with a strong background in metabolism and a passion for uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying adipocyte function. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in cellular metabolism, with a particular focus on mitochondrial biology, metabolic flux analysis, and bioenergetics. Experience with mass spectrometry-based techniques, particularly in metabolic tracing, is highly desirable. Bioinformatic expertise, particularly in R, Python, or similar programming languages, will be a valuable asset for integrating and analyzing multi-omic datasets in this project.

Additionally, experience with CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing, cloning, cell culture techniques, and working with mouse models will be highly advantageous and critical for the success of the project. The successful applicant will demonstrate the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, meet deadlines, and work independently, while also thriving in a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the capacity to critically analyze complex data will be key to the success of the project. The candidate should also demonstrate leadership potential in guiding key experimental aspects. Proficiency in both written and spoken English is essential for effective communication, manuscript preparation, and collaboration with international partners.

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

Read more about the Rydén and Mejhert research group

Application

Welcome to apply by the 21st of October 2025 at the latest.

The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system.In this recruitment, you will apply with your CV without a personal letter. Instead, you will answer some questions about why you are applying for the job in the application form. 

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