Marit Otterlei
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PhD Candidate in Molecular Cell Biology and Microbiology at IKOM Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Biochemistry
Funding
PhD Candidate position funded for 4 years; gross salary normally NOK 580,000 per annum depending on qualifications and seniority.
Deadline
Nov 20, 2026
Country
Norway
University
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
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About this position
This PhD position is part of NTNU’s interdisciplinary research project “Preparedness and Response to AMR, the silent pandemic”, where closely coordinated doctoral projects work together across molecular medicine, biotechnology, and social science. The advertised project focuses on new antimicrobial peptides derived from human plasma and their potential as single agents or in combination with antibiotics against antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.
The doctoral candidate will help identify and characterise novel peptide candidates emerging from previous screening work. The project includes studying how these peptides act, identifying their bacterial targets, improving promising compounds, and testing antibacterial activity against clinical AMR isolates. A major part of the work is understanding mode of action and biological vulnerability in bacteria, with the project linked closely to another PhD project on characterisation of activity, mode of action, and optimal combinations.
The position is based at the Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine (IKOM) at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim. IKOM is a large, research-active department with expertise in basic, clinical, and translational research, and the project sits within NTNU’s broader international research environment. The doctoral candidate will be part of a coordinated group and is expected to collaborate across disciplines and with other project members.
The work combines microbiology and molecular cell biology with biochemistry and data-driven analysis. The student will contribute to experimental studies on antimicrobial peptides, bacterial response, and peptide optimisation, while also engaging in scientific publication and dissemination as part of the doctoral training.
Funding details
PhD Candidate position funded for 4 years; gross salary normally NOK 580,000 per annum depending on qualifications and seniority.
What's required
Applicants must meet admission requirements for the faculty's Doctoral Programme. A relevant Master's degree in molecular cell biology and microbiology or equivalent is required, including a major independent project of at least 30 ECTS equivalent to a master's thesis. Master students may apply, but the master's degree must be completed and documented before starting and no later than January 2027. Applicants must have a strong relevant academic background with an average grade of B or better on NTNU's grading scale, or an equally good academic foundation if letter grades are unavailable. If the academic background is weaker, exceptionally suitable candidates may still be considered based on relevant work experience and/or peer-reviewed academic work. Good written and oral English language skills are required. Preferred qualifications include a strong background in biochemistry, molecular cell biology, and microbiology, experience with bacterial cultures and microbiological assays including MIC and time-kill assays, mammalian cell culture and viability assays, and analysis of large proteomic and genomic datasets. Strong collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills are important.
How to apply
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge.no using the application link. Upload transcripts and diplomas, CV, master's thesis or draft, motivation letter, relevant publications/work, certificates, referee contacts, and any required documentation for foreign education. If invited for interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas.
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Professors
Professor at Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Norway
Research Interests
Microbiology
Biochemistry
Medical Science
Antibiotic Resistance
Biology
Professor at Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Norway
Research Interests
Microbiology
Biochemistry
Molecular Biology
Antibiotic Resistance
Biology
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.