PhD in Mechanisms of PLpro-Mediated Host-Cell Reprogramming in SARS-CoV-2
Explore viral reprogramming of host metabolism during SARS-CoV-2 infection within an EU-funded MSCA doctoral network.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a strong background in virology, molecular biology, or metabolic reprogramming, eager to contribute to translational research on viral pathogenesis.
Overview
This PhD position is part of the MERIT programme, an EU-funded MSCA initiative investigating how viruses like SARS-CoV-2 alter human metabolic pathways. Based at Karolinska Institutet, the project focuses on the role of the viral enzyme PLpro in reprogramming host cells, aiming to uncover mechanisms underlying infection persistence and potential therapeutic targets. The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge research under the supervision of Dr. Adithya Sridhar and Prof. Dasja Pajkrt, contributing to translational medicine and viral pathogenesis. The position offers a multidisciplinary environment with access to advanced scientific resources and collaborative networks within the Horizon Europe framework.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental research to investigate how the SARS-CoV-2 PLpro enzyme alters host cell metabolism during infection.
- Develop and apply molecular biology techniques to study metabolic reprogramming pathways in infected cells.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate findings into broader translational medicine research.
- Present research progress at internal and external scientific conferences and workshops.
- Contribute to manuscript preparation and publication in high-impact scientific journals.
- Participate in the MERIT network’s training programme, including workshops and secondments to partner institutions.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or a related life science field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for academic research and publication
Instruction: English
- Proven experience in molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, cloning, CRISPR-Cas9).
- Familiarity with cell culture and metabolic assays.
- Strong background in virology or related fields.
- Proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.
- Experience with advanced imaging techniques (e.g., confocal microscopy) is a plus.
- Applicants must be eligible for MSCA funding (e.g., mobility rule: not having resided in Sweden for more than 12 months in the last 3 years).
- Open to all nationalities, but mobility rules apply.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-23 (Europe/Amsterdam)
Applicants must submit their application through the official MSCA Doctoral Networks portal. Required documents include a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. Additional project-specific requirements may apply, such as a research proposal or proof of eligibility for MSCA funding.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of eligibility for MSCA funding (if applicable)
Contact
MERIT Programme Office· Administrative Contact
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