PhD student in Biophysics

Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University

SciLifeLab (SciLifeLab) is a national center for molecular biosciences with focus on health and environmental research. The center combines frontline technical expertise with advanced knowledge of translational medicine and molecular bioscience. SciLifeLab is a national resource hosted by Karolinska Institutet, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm University and Uppsala University. The center also collaborates with several other universities.

The employment will be placed at the Department of biochemistry and biophysics, at Stockholm university.

Project description
Your studies in Biophysics will be on the project: “Biophysical investigations of molecular recognition in high-throughput”.

Sequence specific binding and recognition between DNA, RNA and protein control life at the molecular level. Despite the significance of these interactions, quantitatively predicting binding from nucleotide or protein sequences still remains a challenge. The research group of Emil Marklund investigates how sequence information in biological macromolecules governs recognition, binding, and dynamical structure. This project aims to build physical and predictive binding models by performing high-throughput and quantitative biochemical binding measurements across hundreds of thousands of sequence variants.

We are seeking PhD candidates with strong and documented backgrounds in biophysics, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related fields. Proficiency with molecular cloning, protein purification, cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, image analysis, mathematical modeling of dynamical systems, and machine learning is advantageous. Priority will be given to candidates with the overall highest experience in these fields, however prior experience with all the listed techniques is not a requirement and we encourage applicants of different backgrounds to apply. We are looking for candidates who work well in a team and contribute to a positive work environment. The selected PhD candidate will be joining a dynamic and interdisciplinary lab that aims to do ambitious science based in SciLifeLab in Stockholm, a vibrant hub for scientific research.

Qualification requirements
In order to meet the general entry requirements, the applicant must have completed a second-cycle degree, completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

In order to meet the specific entry requirements for acceptance in the Biophysics program, the applicant must have passed courses within the first and second cycles of at least 120 credits in Physics or Chemistry and at the second level, courses of at least 60 credits Biophysics, Biochemistry or Physical Chemistry including a 30 credit Degree Project (thesis).

The qualification requirements must be met by the deadline for applications. 

Selection
The selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to successfully complete the program. Important criteria when assessing this capacity are; documented knowledge and skills in the field of the thesis project, written and oral proficiency in English, the capacity for analytical thinking, the ability to collaborate, as well as creativity, initiative, and independence. The assessment will be based on previous experience and grades, the quality of the degree project, references, relevant experience, interviews, and the candidate’s written motivation for seeking the position. 

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University are available at: www.su.se/rules and regulations.

Terms of employment
Only a person who will be or has already been admitted to a third-cycle programme may be appointed to a doctoral studentship.

The term of the initial contract may not exceed one year. The employment may be extended for a maximum of two years at a time. However, the total period of employment may not exceed the equivalent of four years of full-time study.

Doctoral students should primarily devote themselves to their own education, but may engage in teaching, research, and administration corresponding to a maximum of 20 % of a full-time position.

Please note that admission decisions cannot be appealed.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact
For more information, please contact project leader, Associate Professor, Emil Marklund, emil.marklund@dbb.su.se.