PhD: Immunometabolic Engineering for Alphavirus Therapeutics
Join an EU-funded MSCA training programme to investigate viral pathogenesis and develop innovative alphavirus therapeutics.
Best for:Best for graduate researchers with a background in molecular biology, immunology, or virology seeking an international PhD within an MSCA network.
Overview
This PhD position is part of the MERIT (Metabolic Reprogramming in viral pathogenesis) EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions training programme, focused on exploring how viruses interact with human metabolic pathways. Coordinated by Dr. Adithya Sridhar and Prof. Dr. Dasja Pajkrt, the successful candidate will conduct rigorous research in immunometabolic engineering to design next-generation treatments for alphavirus infections. The researcher is expected to engage fully in the network's training activities, collaborate with international partners, and contribute high-impact scientific publications. The project offers a unique multidisciplinary environment combining virology, immunology, and metabolic engineering.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent and collaborative research on immunometabolic mechanisms during viral infection
- Design and execute experiments involving alphavirus models and cellular metabolism
- Analyze complex biological datasets and present findings at internal meetings and international conferences
- Participate actively in the MERIT network training events, workshops, and secondments
- Draft manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals
- Contribute to the general maintenance and management of laboratory equipment and safety protocols
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science or equivalent degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Virology, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; professional proficiency required for research, writing, and communication
Instruction: English
- Strong background in molecular biology, immunology, or virology
- Experience with mammalian cell culture and viral infection assays
- Demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret experimental data critically
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- Ability to work effectively within an international, multidisciplinary team
- Must comply with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions mobility rules (typically not having resided or carried out main activity in Sweden for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately prior to the recruitment date)
- Must qualify as a First Stage Researcher (R1) at the time of recruitment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30 (Europe/Amsterdam)
Interested candidates should submit their application materials through the designated application channel before the deadline. Ensure all requested documentation, including academic records and statements of interest, are complete and provided in English.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Reference letters
Contact
Adithya Sridhar· Assistant Professor
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.