PhD Position in Computational Cancer Biology at Karolinska Institutet Karolinska Institutet in Sweden

Karolinska Institutet in Solna, Sweden, is offering a fully funded PhD position in Computational Cancer Biology within the research group of Associate Professor Susanne Schlisio at the Department of Oncology-Pathology. The Schlisio lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying tumor initiation, progression, and therapy resistance in sympatho-adrenal cancers, such as neuroblastoma and paraganglioma. The doctoral project focuses on targeting malignancy in neuroblastoma and paraganglioma driven by cell plasticity, using advanced computational and systems biology approaches, including spatial transcriptomics, single-cell RNA sequencing, and machine learning. The student will generate and analyze large-scale transcriptomic data, reconstruct differentiation trajectories, and model signaling networks driving tumor plasticity.

The project aims to translate fundamental discoveries into new concepts for precision oncology and patient stratification. The lab is well-funded, with support from national and international grants, including an ERC Synergy Grant, and is part of a collaborative network with SciLifeLab and the Swedish Childhood Tumor Biobank. The position offers comprehensive training in computational techniques, participation in doctoral courses, and opportunities for international collaboration.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant quantitative field, strong programming skills in R and/or Python, and experience in data analysis or machine learning. Familiarity with RNA-seq, data visualization, and computational workflows is required. The position is salaried for up to four years, with additional benefits such as free gym access and medical care reimbursements. The application deadline is December 27, 2025.

Applications must be submitted via the Varbi recruitment system, including all required documents as specified in the call.