Doctoral Student in Infection Biophysics and Microengineering
Investigate the biophysical mechanisms of schistosome skin infection using microfluidics and custom microscopy.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in biophysics, biomedical engineering, or applied physics with an interest in interdisciplinary parasite research.
Overview
The Hannebelle Lab at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and SciLifeLab in Stockholm is seeking a doctoral student to study the biophysical processes of schistosome skin infection. This interdisciplinary project combines microfluidics, organ-on-chip platforms, custom microscopy, cell culture, and biophysical modeling to uncover how parasites penetrate human skin. The successful candidate will work within a young, dynamic research group aimed at understanding the physical principles of infection. Applicants are not expected to master every technique initially, but must demonstrate curiosity, a willingness to learn, and strong collaborative skills.
What you'll do
- Design and implement in-vivo-mimetic systems and microfluidic platforms to study parasite-skin interactions.
- Perform custom microscopy and cell culture experiments to observe infection stages.
- Develop biophysical models to explain the physical mechanisms governing parasite penetration and migration.
- Handle parasite cultures and execute controlled infection assays.
- Collaborate across disciplines with team members on hardware design, 3D printing, and biological analysis.
- Contribute up to 20% of time to departmental tasks such as teaching and administrative duties.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present results at conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in infection biology, biophysics, applied physics, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, or a closely related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English equivalent to English B/6
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated ability to learn new methods rapidly and independently
- Strong background in an experimental or quantitative science field
- Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team environment
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for complex biological issues
- Passed a second-cycle degree, such as a Master's degree
- Completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, with at least 60 credits at the second cycle
- Acquired substantially equivalent knowledge through other means
Funding & terms
How to apply
Applicants must submit their complete application package through KTH's online recruitment system before the specified deadline. Ensure all required academic transcripts, CVs, and motivation letters are properly translated and certified.
- CV
- Application letter
- Diplomas and grades
- Language proficiency certificates
- Representative publications or technical reports
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