PhD position in T cell biology and immunotherapy Karolinska Institutet in Sweden

This PhD position at Karolinska Institutet offers an exciting opportunity to join the Bryceson laboratory, located on the Huddinge campus, and contribute to cutting-edge research in T cell biology and immunotherapy. The group’s overarching aim is to understand cytotoxic lymphocyte biology to better treat severe inborn errors of immunity and develop innovative cellular immunotherapies against cancer. As part of the Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) and the Center for Cellular Cancer Therapy (C33T), the lab provides a collaborative and translational biomedical research environment.

The doctoral project focuses on dissecting the differentiation and function of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, with particular emphasis on tissue-resident cytotoxic subsets and their role in cancer immunotherapy. The research involves the use of chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) in T cells, which have revolutionized cell therapies for certain cancers but remain challenging for most solid tumors. The project will utilize human primary cells, cell lines, and potentially humanized mouse models to develop translational tools for clinical applications.

Karolinska Institutet is renowned for its medical research and education, offering doctoral students a creative and inspiring environment, access to a wide range of elective courses, and opportunities for international collaboration. As a doctoral student, you will be employed on a studentship with a contractual monthly salary for up to four years full-time, and enjoy additional benefits such as free gym access and medical care reimbursements.

Eligibility requirements include a master’s degree or equivalent, or completion of at least 240 credits with 60 at the advanced/master level, or substantially equivalent knowledge. Proficiency in English (equivalent to Swedish upper secondary school English B/English 6) is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in immunology, molecular biology, and genome engineering, with hands-on experience in cell culture, PCR, cloning, and preferably primary immune cell cultures and flow cytometry. Experience in transcriptional or epigenetic analyses, high-throughput sequencing, or bioinformatics is advantageous. The ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and contribute to a collaborative lab environment is expected.

Applications should be submitted via the Varbi recruitment system, including a personal letter, CV, degree projects, previous publications, and documentation of eligibility and skills. The application can be written in English or Swedish. The selection process will evaluate subject knowledge, analytical skills, and relevant experience. The deadline for applications is December 9, 2025.

For further information, contact Professor Yenan Bryceson ([email protected]). Join Karolinska Institutet and make a difference in the field of medical science and cancer immunotherapy.