PhD Position in Data-driven Precision Medicine and Diagnostics (Early Detection of Lung Cancer) Linköping University in Sweden

Linköping University invites applications for a PhD position in Data-driven Precision Medicine and Diagnostics, focusing on early detection of lung cancer. This opportunity is part of the SciLifeLab and Wallenberg National Program for Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS), a major initiative funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation to advance computational and data science capabilities in Sweden. The DDLS Research School will expand in 2026, recruiting new PhD students to join a vibrant community of over 260 doctoral candidates and 200 postdocs.

The research area centers on integrating and analyzing large-scale medical datasets, including chest CT volumes and clinical variables, to develop advanced methods for early detection of lung cancer. The Swedish SCAPIS project provides a unique dataset of medical images and clinical variables from more than 30,000 subjects. The goal is to train models that not only detect lung nodules but also distinguish between benign and malignant cases, leveraging high-resolution CT data and clinical information such as age, sex, and smoking status. The project aims to improve patient stratification, biomarker discovery, diagnosis, drug response, and health monitoring using state-of-the-art AI and computational techniques.

As a PhD student, you will become an expert in medical image analysis, computer vision, deep learning, and the application of AI in healthcare. You will participate in regular meetings with fellow PhD students, researchers, supervisors, and collaborators, and may engage in teaching or departmental duties up to 20% of your time. The research group is based at the Division of Biomedical Engineering (IMT), collaborating with medical doctors at Linköping University Hospital (CMIV), the computer vision laboratory in the Department of Electrical Engineering, and the division of statistics and machine learning in the Department of Computer and Information Science.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, machine learning, statistics, computer science, or a related field, or have completed at least 240 credits (with 60 at an advanced level). Equivalent knowledge gained in other ways is also acceptable. Specific eligibility for doctoral education in Biomedical Engineering Science requires at least 60 advanced credits in a relevant field. Documented proficiency in English is mandatory. Candidates should have expertise in computer vision and/or medical image analysis, deep learning, mathematics, and strong programming skills (especially Python). Independence, meticulousness, efficiency, and excellent communication skills are essential.

Linköping University is a leading AI institution in Sweden, offering access to advanced computing infrastructure for machine learning, including Berzelius and powerful local resources. The PhD position is a full-time employment for four years, with possible extension up to five years based on teaching and institutional duties. The starting salary is SEK 36,400 per month, revised annually, and includes employment benefits. The position starts as soon as possible or by agreement.

Applications must be submitted online by 2026-05-15 (CET). Late applications will not be considered. Linköping University values diversity and equal opportunities, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds and experiences. For more information about the DDLS Research School, visit https://www.scilifelab.se/data-driven/ddls-research-school/. For application details and to apply, see the application portal.