PhD Position in Neonatal Brain Injury and Immune Cell Involvement at Linköping University Linköping University in Sweden

Linköping University invites applications for a PhD position focused on neonatal brain injury and the role of peripheral immune cells in hypoxia ischemia models. The research is conducted within a multidisciplinary group at the Medical Campus, adjacent to Linköping University Hospital, offering a translational environment with close interaction between clinical and laboratory scientists. The project is based in the Division of Children's and Women's Health, part of the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV).

The main research project investigates the involvement of innate immune system cells, particularly monocyte-derived macrophages, in neonatal hypoxia ischemia. The candidate will employ RNA interference as a therapeutic approach and utilize both in vitro and in vivo models. The position offers opportunities to participate in regular lab meetings, collaborate with other researchers, and gradually take on increasing responsibility for sub-projects leading to the thesis.

Supervision is provided by Drs. Ulrika Ådén and Elena Di Martino at Linköping University, with co-supervision by Dr. Jennifer Dowling at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. The PhD student will spend a three-month period in the co-supervisors’ laboratory in Ireland as part of their doctoral education.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree in neuroscience, immunology, biotechnology, or related biomedical sciences, or have completed at least 240 credits (with 60 in advanced courses) in relevant fields. Required skills include cell culture, ELISA, western blot, DNA and RNA extraction, qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence microscopy, stereology, laboratory animal handling, behavior assessments, and data analysis using GraphPad Prism. Experience with flow cytometry, FlowJo, coding and data analysis using R or Python is advantageous. FELASA certification, knowledge of perinatal brain development and neuroinflammation, and prior scientific writing experience are meriting. English language proficiency equivalent to English B/English 6 at Swedish upper secondary school is required.

The position is a four-year full-time equivalent employment, initially for one year with possible renewals up to five years depending on teaching and departmental duties. Salary is determined by local negotiation, and employment benefits are provided. The starting date is by agreement, preferably no later than January 2027.

Applications must be submitted online by 31st July 2026. Applicants should include a personal statement and provide contact details for three references. Linköping University values diversity and equal opportunities in its workplace.