Research assistant to the Unit of System Toxicology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

The research at the Unit of System Toxicology at IMM covers basic mechanistic research in cell and inanimal models as well as analysis of epidemiological data and mathematical modelling of how different environmental exposures, including environmental and endogenous microbes and chemicals, affect human wellbeing. With a focus on gene-environment interactions at epithelial barriers, we are primarily
interested in understanding how exposures to external agents impact on barrier function, immunity and systemic immune responses. Our aim is to integrate multi-omics approaches to uncover the mechanisms behind the factors linking environmental exposures with immune activation or tolerance. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms will pave the way for improved diagnostics and future therapeutic
strategies.

Your mission

As a research assistant at the Unit of System Toxicology Your task is to build and optimize relevant cell and 3D skin models for the analysis of exposure to skin bacteria and their metabolites, pathogens, and selected chemicals, using ELISA, Mesoscaletechnology, real time qPCR, RNAseq and histochemical analysis as read-out techniques. Mastering these techniques is an advantage. You will also culture
biosafety level 1 and 2 skin bacteria obtained from patient isolates, to be used in the models. A main task will be to characterize patient derived skin microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and a requirement for the position is the capability to independently perform 16S rRNA gene data preprocessing and exploratory analysis, including the use of advanced R programming. The position is temporary for 12 months.

Your profile

The successful candidate has a MSc in biology or a related field and is experienced in DNA extraction, cultivating bacteria, and using R. We are looking for someone who can work independently with 16S sequencing data and is familiar with using the DADA2 pipeline for inferring sequences into ASVs. An understanding of microbiome analysis and familiarity with the human skin microbiome is also required. The applicant should also have previous experience of extracting DNA from skin swabs and working
with bacteria in a BSL2 laboratory, and experience in cell culturing is an advantage

What do we offer?

A creative and inspiring environment full of expertise and curiosity. 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 a state university, which entitles to several benefits such as extended holiday and generous occupational pension. Employees also have access to our modern gym for free and receive reimbursements for medical care.

Location: Solna

https://ki.se/en/imm/unit-of-system-toxicology

Welcome to apply at the latest December 19, 2019.

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

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