PhD Position in Epigenetics and Obesity Research
Investigate epigenetic mechanisms of weight regain and obesity relapse with advanced molecular biology techniques.
Best for:Best for molecular biologists with hands-on experience in epigenetics, advanced molecular techniques, and a passion for obesity research and translational science.
Overview
This PhD position at the newly established K.G Jebsen Centre of Obesity Research (CORA) at the University of Oslo focuses on uncovering molecular mechanisms behind weight regain and long-term weight maintenance after obesity treatment. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Yvonne Böttcher’s research group, exploring epigenetic and epitranscriptomic mechanisms in human adipose tissue. The project combines clinical collaborations, advanced molecular biology techniques, and multi-omics technologies to identify epigenetic biomarkers of weight regain. The position offers interdisciplinary collaboration within CORA and exposure to cutting-edge research in obesity biology.
What you'll do
- Conduct scientific research on epigenetic mechanisms regulating human body weight and adipose tissue biology using advanced molecular biology techniques.
- Collaborate closely with clinical environments to study human biomaterials and cell culture models related to weight regain and obesity relapse.
- Identify novel epigenetic biomarkers of weight regain using primary adipose tissue and multi-omics technologies such as single-cell sequencing and next-generation sequencing.
- Contribute to interdisciplinary research within CORA, including knowledge exchange and participation in seminars, conferences, and discussions.
- Stay updated on the latest literature in the field and actively engage in scientific discussions and presentations.
- Participate in the K.G. Jebsen Academy for Young Scientists to foster career development and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science in molecular biology, molecular medicine, genetics, biomedicine, or a related field with an average grade of B or better at the master’s level.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and communication.
Instruction: English
- Hands-on experience in general molecular biology laboratory techniques (e.g., RNA/DNA isolation, RT-qPCR, genotyping, western blotting, immunoprecipitation, adipocyte cell culture).
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
- Ability to independently design, plan, and execute experiments.
- Proven academic performance with a minimum average grade of B at the master’s level.
- Must have a five-year master’s degree or equivalent studies recognized by the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Oslo.
- Admission to the PhD program at the University of Oslo is required or must be secured within three months of the project start.
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 27th October 2026
Applicants must submit their application through the University of Oslo’s recruitment system, Jobbnorge. The application should include an application letter, CV, a complete list of publications, transcripts and certificates, and contact information for 2-3 references. The CV must be entered in Jobbnorge’s CV form and cannot be submitted as an attachment. Education results must be retrieved from Vitnemålsportalen.no or uploaded as copies if unavailable there.
- Application letter
- CV (entered in Jobbnorge’s CV form)
- Complete list of publications
- Transcripts and certificates
- Contact information for 2-3 references
Contact
Francesco Saggio· University of Oslo
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