Doctoral (PhD) Student Position in Selection of DNA/RNA Nanostructures as Novel Therapies

Job Description

Organization: Karolinska Institutet

Department: Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC)

Research Group: Erik Benson Lab

Location: SciLifeLab Campus Solna, Stockholm, Sweden

Reference Number: STÖD 2-2741/2026

Project Overview

This PhD project aims to develop novel DNA/RNA nanostructures that function as targeted nucleic acid therapeutics for cancer. Instead of testing individual nanostructures, the project employs high-throughput selection approaches in which millions of distinct DNA/RNA nanostructures are screened against cancer and control cell lines to identify highly effective therapeutic candidates.

The project combines nucleic acid nanotechnology, molecular biology, high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics, and computational analysis in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Research Environment

The research is conducted in the Erik Benson Lab at SciLifeLab Campus Solna within the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC). The laboratory specializes in combining DNA nanotechnology with selection and sequencing technologies to address biomedical challenges through interdisciplinary collaborations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and assemble DNA/RNA nanostructures.
• Perform DNA-protein conjugation and molecular biology experiments.
• Conduct mammalian cell culture experiments.
• Carry out high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analyses.
• Design, perform, analyze, and interpret scientific experiments.
• Publish research findings and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Nanotechnology, Biomedicine, Chemistry, or related field.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR and nucleic acid handling.
• Programming or computational data analysis experience (preferably Python).
• Strong written and spoken English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mammalian cell culture.
• High-throughput sequencing and sequencing data analysis.
• Bioconjugation and purification techniques.
• RNA research experience.
• Advanced microscopy techniques.

Employment Details

• Full-time doctoral studentship.
• Maximum duration of 4 years.
• Individual research project with structured doctoral education.
• International research collaborations and exchange opportunities.

Benefits

• Contractual doctoral student salary according to KI salary scale.
• Free access to Karolinska Institutet gym.
• Medical care reimbursement.
• Wide selection of doctoral courses and professional development opportunities.

Application Documents

• Personal letter.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Degree project and publications (if applicable).
• Supporting documents demonstrating relevant skills.
• Documents proving general and specific doctoral eligibility.

Contact: Dr. Erik Benson
Email: [email protected]

Application Deadline: 5 August 2026