Doctoral (PhD) student position in deep learning modeling of cancer Karolinska Institutet in Sweden

This doctoral (PhD) student position at Karolinska Institutet offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to advancing human health through deep learning modeling of cancer. The position is based in Avlant Nilsson’s research group at Karolinska Institutet and SciLifeLab, focusing on developing mechanistic AI models of cancer cells to support precision medicine. The lab integrates large-scale multi-omics data—including metabolomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics—with molecular interaction networks to construct interpretable deep learning models that capture system-level mechanisms in cancer.

The central goal is to build a unified computational model describing how molecular processes such as signaling, gene regulation, and metabolism interact to determine cellular behavior. This research aims to identify biomarkers, novel drug targets, and mechanisms of resistance, ultimately enabling computer-aided design of precision therapies. The project is part of the SciLifeLab and DDLS (Data-Driven Life Science) program, providing access to a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment and state-of-the-art computational infrastructure, including the Berzelius supercomputer.

The main supervisor is Assistant Professor Avlant Nilsson, with Professor Randall S. Johnson as co-supervisor at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology. The PhD project involves developing a unified, next-generation AI model of the cancer cell by integrating metabolism, signaling, and gene regulation into a single predictive framework. The work includes designing biologically constrained deep learning models using novel architectures based on recurrent neural networks (RNNs) to capture how molecular states evolve and give rise to cellular phenotypes. Key components of the project are model development, in silico target discovery, and biomarker discovery.

As a doctoral student, you will work closely with the computational team and collaborators, contributing to experiment design guided by model predictions. Karolinska Institutet offers a creative and inspiring environment, a wide range of elective courses, and opportunities for international exchanges. The doctoral studentship provides a contractual monthly salary for up to four years full-time, with additional benefits such as free access to the modern gym and medical care reimbursements.

Eligibility requirements include a second-cycle/advanced/master qualification or equivalent, or completion of at least 240 credits (with at least 60 at the advanced/master level), or substantially equivalent knowledge. Proficiency in English equivalent to English B/English 6 at Swedish upper secondary school is required. Necessary skills include strong programming abilities in Python, familiarity with version control (e.g. Git), and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Desirable qualifications are a background in physics, computational biology, machine learning, applied mathematics, experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow), familiarity with cancer and cell biology, high-dimensional or dynamical systems, and experience analyzing biological or multi-omics data. Applicants from quantitative disciplines are encouraged, and prior biological expertise is not required.

The application process is managed through the Varbi recruitment system. Applicants should submit a personal letter, CV, degree projects and previous publications, documentation of skills and personal qualities, and documents certifying eligibility. Selection is based on documented subject knowledge, analytical skill, and other relevant experience. All applicants will be informed when recruitment is completed. The deadline for applications is May 27, 2026.

Join Karolinska Institutet and contribute to better health for all through innovative research in cancer modeling and precision medicine.