This PhD position at Karolinska Institutet offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to top-tier medical research in the field of T cell biology and immunotherapy. The successful candidate will join the Bryceson Laboratory, located at the Huddinge campus, which is part of the Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) and the Center for Cellular Cancer Therapy (C33T). The overarching aim of the group is to understand the biology of cytotoxic lymphocytes to better explain and treat severe congenital immunodeficiencies and to develop innovative cellular immunotherapies for cancer.

The doctoral project will focus on the differentiation and function of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, with a particular emphasis on maximizing the potential of CAR-T cell therapies. The research will involve the use of primary human cells, cell lines, and potentially humanized mouse models, aiming to develop translational tools for clinical applications. The laboratory has mapped differentiation pathways of cytotoxic lymphocytes, including tissue-resident subtypes, and seeks to leverage these insights for therapeutic innovation.

Karolinska Institutet is one of the world’s leading medical universities, offering a creative, international, and inspiring environment filled with expertise and curiosity. As a PhD student, you will benefit from an individualized research project, a highly qualified supervisor, a wide range of elective courses, and the opportunity to work in a successful research group. The university’s extensive collaborations with leading institutions worldwide also provide opportunities for international exchange.

The position is a full-time doctoral employment for up to four years, with a monthly salary, access to modern fitness facilities, and healthcare compensation. The working environment is collaborative and interdisciplinary, supporting both independent and team-based research.

Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must have a master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field, or have completed at least 240 ECTS credits (with at least 60 at the advanced level), or have acquired equivalent knowledge. Proficiency in English (equivalent to English B/English 6 at Swedish upper secondary school) is required. Experience in cell culture and basic molecular biology methods (such as PCR and cloning) is mandatory. Experience with primary immune cell cultures from mouse or human, flow cytometry, transcriptomic or epigenetic analysis, high-throughput sequencing data analysis, or other bioinformatics is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate strong interest in immunology, molecular biology, and genetic modification, and be able to work both independently and collaboratively. Good written and spoken English is required.

Application Process: Apply via the Varbi recruitment system using the provided application link. Submit your application in English or Swedish, including a personal letter, CV, degree certificates, publications, and documents proving eligibility. Follow the instructions on the application portal for required documents and eligibility verification. The selection will be based on documented subject knowledge, analytical skills, and other relevant experience. All applicants will be informed when the recruitment process is completed.

For further information, contact Professor Yenan Bryceson ([email protected]). The application deadline is December 9, 2025.