PhD in Cancer Biology at Karolinska Institutet | Computational Cancer Biology Research Opportunity
Are you passionate about cancer research and ready to take your scientific career to the next level? Karolinska Institutet, one of the world’s top medical universities, is offering an exciting PhD in Cancer Biology within the Department of Oncology-Pathology. This PhD Admissions program gives aspiring researchers the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of computational cancer biology, exploring molecular mechanisms that drive tumor growth, therapy resistance, and cancer plasticity.
About Karolinska Institutet
Karolinska Institutet (KI) is one of the world’s leading medical universities, globally recognized for its pioneering cancer research and contributions to medical science. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, KI combines cutting-edge biomedical education with internationally acclaimed research. It awards the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine and offers numerous PhD Admissions for global scholars aspiring to make breakthroughs in life sciences. By joining Karolinska Institutet for a PhD in Cancer Biology, students become part of a legacy that shapes the future of global healthcare and innovation.
The Doctoral Project
Project Title:
Targeting malignancy in neuroblastoma and paraganglioma driven by cell plasticity using spatial transcriptomics and machine learning
Project Overview
High-risk neuroblastoma (NB) and malignant paraganglioma (PPGL) are neural crest-derived tumors known for their heterogeneity and therapy resistance. This PhD project aims to elucidate how tumor cell plasticity and microenvironmental signals contribute to malignancy, progression, and treatment failure.
Research Objectives
The doctoral student will:
- Generate and analyze spatial and single-cell transcriptomic data from human NB and PPGL tumors.
- Integrate developmental reference datasets to reconstruct cell differentiation trajectories.
- Apply graph-based and machine-learning models to identify signaling networks driving tumor plasticity.
- Validate candidate pathways using in vitro assays and genetically engineered mouse models.
- Present findings at seminars and conferences, contributing to scientific publications.
Training and Opportunities
The PhD candidate will receive:
- Comprehensive training in computational analysis, single-cell genomics, and spatial data interpretation.
- Access to doctoral courses at Karolinska Institutet.
- International exposure through the ERC Synergy-funded research network and the Karolinska Neuroblastoma and Paraganglioma Network.
- Mentorship and collaboration in a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment focused on cancer plasticity and precision oncology.
The ultimate goal is to develop the student into an independent researcher capable of pioneering future discoveries in computational cancer biology.
What We Offer
At Karolinska Institutet, you will be part of one of the world’s leading medical universities, globally recognized for its contributions to health science and education.
We Offer:
- A creative, inspiring, and international environment full of expertise and curiosity.
- Access to cutting-edge medical research and Sweden’s largest network of healthcare education.
- Opportunities for international collaboration with leading global institutions.
- A doctoral studentship (full-time, 4 years) with a contractual monthly salary.
- Free access to the modern gym and medical care reimbursements for employees.
Karolinska Institutet’s vision is to advance knowledge about life and promote better health for all.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this PhD Admissions Program, candidates must meet both general and specific eligibility requirements:
A) General Eligibility
- Hold a Master’s degree (second-cycle qualification), or
- Have completed at least 240 ECTS credits, with 60 credits at the Master’s level, or
- Possess equivalent knowledge acquired in Sweden or abroad.
Refer to KI’s webpage for assessing equivalent knowledge and verifying eligibility.
B) Specific Eligibility
- Demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to English B/ English 6 at the Swedish upper-secondary school level.
Important: Karolinska Institutet verifies the authenticity of all documents. Submission of fraudulent documents may result in legal action and revocation of admission.
Required Skills and Personal Qualities
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related quantitative field.
- Strong programming skills in R and/or Python.
- Prior experience in data analysis, statistics, or machine learning.
- Familiarity with RNA-seq, data visualization, and computational workflows.
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience with single-cell or spatial transcriptomics.
- Knowledge of graph-based modeling, deep learning, or high-performance computing.
- Familiarity with Linux/Unix, Git, and biological data pipelines.
- Basic understanding of molecular or cancer biology (beneficial, but not mandatory).
Application Process for PhD in Cancer Biology
Applications must be submitted via the Varbi recruitment system. We recommend submitting your documents in English (Swedish is also accepted).
Your Application Must Include:
- Personal letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Degree projects and previous publications (if any)
- Documents proving eligibility (general and specific)
- Any other documentation showcasing your skills or relevant experience
Selection Process
Eligible candidates will be assessed based on:
- Subject knowledge and research relevance
- Analytical and computational skills
- Other relevant academic or research experience
Terms and Conditions
- Type of employment: PhD placement
- Contract type: Full-time (maximum 4 years)
- Salary: Monthly contractual salary
- Start Date: Upon agreement
- Number of positions: 1 (Full-time, 100%)
- City: Solna, Stockholm County, Sweden
- Reference Number: STÖD 2-4190/2025
