Research Assistant in Epigenetics of the lung-brain axis in Multiple Sclerosis

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

Join the dynamic and cooperative group of Prof. Maja Jagodic under the supervision of the Team Leader Dr. Lara Kular at the Department of Clinical Neuroscience. This offers the opportunity to contribute to interactive research driven by pertinent clinical questions, combining deep molecular understanding of the mechanisms underlying Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with some of the most competitive clinical materials worldwide. You will benefit from a highly collaborative, engaged and international research environment committed to exploring innovative translational ideas in precision medicine where you will have the possibility to conduct research at the top international level in the field.

Your mission

We are looking for a research assistant to join our research team and collaborate with PhD students, postdocs, and senior researchers on deciphering multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. You will contribute to our effort to unveil the mechanisms underlying the impact of smoking on neuroinflammation in MS using both advanced omics approaches in unique clinical samples along the lung-brain axis in combination with functional experiments based on CRISPR/dCas9-epigenome editing in vitro. The work entails both an experimental side including next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation and cell culture as well as bioinformatic work aiming at addressing epigenetic, particularly DNA methylation, and transcriptomic changes, under the guidance of our senior bioinformatician. The successful candidate is expected to interact with internal and extremal collaborators and to contribute to the efficient functioning of the unit.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who shares our passion for translational research and epigenetics. It is required to have a bachelor's degree and meritorious if you have a master's degree or are currently studying for a master's degree in science.

Absolute Requirements

• Scientific and/or research background on human diseases and mechanisms involved in autoimmunity and nervous processes involved in brain-related disorders.
• Documented practical experience with NGS-based library preparation, particularly in the field of DNA methylation and gene expression.
• Technical skills in basic molecular (cloning, DNA/RNA extraction) and cellular (cell culture, transfection) work.
• Programming skills (preferably in R) in NGS-derived analyses, e.g. bulk methylome/transcriptome, single-cell RNA sequencing.
• Knowledge of mechanisms of gene regulation and epigenetics.
• Good command of spoken and written English.

Meritorious

• Knowledge of multiple sclerosis disease
• Knowledge of smoking-associated molecular changes
• Practical experience with CRISPR-based epigenome editing
• Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with colleagues and students

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: Solna

Read more about Department of Clinical Neuroscience 
Read more about the research group you will be part of 

Application

Welcome to apply at the latest 18 June 2025

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!