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
Available
Deadline
Nov 20, 2026
Country
Norway
University
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
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About this position
This PhD project is part of NTNU’s interdisciplinary research effort on preparedness and response to antimicrobial resistance, described as “the silent pandemic.” The advertised PhD candidate will join one of four closely coordinated projects and work within a collaborative environment that links molecular and clinical research with broader interdisciplinary expertise.
The project focuses on discovering and characterizing new antimicrobial peptides derived from human plasma. These peptides may act as stand-alone antibacterials or may strengthen the effect of existing antibiotics. The student will work on identifying novel peptide candidates, studying how they act on bacteria, mapping bacterial targets and vulnerabilities, and optimizing promising leads for further evaluation.
A key part of the project is testing antibacterial activity against clinical antimicrobial-resistant isolates and comparing activity alone and in combination with antibiotics. The research therefore combines peptide screening, mechanistic studies, and experimental work aimed at understanding how these molecules can be developed as new antimicrobial tools.
The position is based at the Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine (IKOM) at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim. IKOM is described as NTNU’s largest department, with broad expertise in basic, clinical, and translational research across infectious disease and related biomedical areas. The project is led within a wider NTNU research network involving Professor Marit Otterlei and Professor Heidrun Åm, with close collaboration expected across the integrated PhD projects.
The candidate will also work closely with the related PhD project on mode of action, activity, and optimal combinations in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, creating opportunities to collaborate across disciplines and methods.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Relevant Master's degree in molecular cell biology and microbiology or equivalent, including a major independent project of at least 30 ECTS equivalent to a master's thesis. Master students may apply only if the degree is 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 strong academic foundation if grades are not letter-based; candidates with a weaker background may still be considered if exceptionally suited through relevant work experience and/or peer-reviewed academic work. Good written and oral English skills are required. Preferred qualifications include a strong background in biochemistry, molecular cell biology, and microbiology; experience with bacterial cultures and microbiological assays such as MIC and time-kill assays; experience with mammalian cell culture and viability assays; and analysis of large datasets, especially proteomic and genomic data. Strong collaborative, communication, and interpersonal skills are important.
How to apply
Apply electronically via Jobbnorge.no before the deadline. Upload transcripts and diplomas for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, CV, a copy or draft of the master’s thesis, a short motivation letter, relevant publications or research work, certificates if any, and contact details for three referees. If relevant, include documentation for overseas degrees and any HK-dir statement.
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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.