Research Assistant in Micro- and Nanoengineering

Job Description

Institution: Karolinska Institutet

Location: Solna, Stockholm County, Sweden

The research will be conducted in the laboratory of Professor Volker Lauschke at Karolinska Institutet. The group focuses on developing advanced in vitro systems using 3D cell culture models of primary human cells, microfluidic platforms, and integrative bioinformatics approaches to improve prediction of drug toxicity and to identify therapeutic strategies for complex metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

The research also investigates the molecular basis of liver plasticity during injury and regeneration, as well as the genetic determinants of drug response and adverse drug reactions at the population level.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and fabricate biocompatible microfluidic devices for organotypic human tissue models.
• Develop micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) for microphysiological systems.
• Build scalable technical platforms for microfluidic cell culture systems.
• Support experimental development of organ-on-chip models and related technologies.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as microengineering, nanotechnology, materials science, or related fields.
• Expertise in fabrication of polymer devices using thiol-ene and thiol-ene-epoxy systems.
• Experience with micro/nano reaction injection molding.
• Strong CAD modeling skills (e.g., Solid Edge, L-Edit).
• Knowledge of lithography techniques including electron-beam, nanoimprint, and photolithography.
• Experience with AFM and SEM characterization methods.
• Familiarity with wet and dry etching processes.
• Additional merits include FEM simulation for microfluidics and programming skills.

What We Offer

• A creative and collaborative research environment at one of the world’s leading medical universities.
• Opportunities to work at the intersection of bioengineering, microfluidics, and translational biomedical research.
• Competitive employment benefits under Swedish collective agreements.
• Access to modern wellness and sports facilities.

Employment Details

• Position type: Permanent (with a six-month probation period).
• Working hours: Full-time (100%).
• Salary: Monthly salary according to university standards.
• Start date: Upon agreement.

Application

Applications must be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system. Candidates should upload a CV and answer application questions within the system (no personal cover letter required).