PhD Positions in Medical Science: Heart-Lung Crosstalk and Workplace Intervention for Anxiety Disorders at University of Gothenburg University of Gothenburg in Sweden

The University of Gothenburg’s Sahlgrenska Academy is offering two PhD positions in Medical Science at the Institute of Medicine. The first project, supervised by Professor Gustav Smith, focuses on 'Heart-Lung crosstalk and applications for heart failure prevention and treatment.' This research will systematically assess the importance of heart-lung interorgan crosstalk in heart failure, asthma, and COPD, using experimental and clinical study designs. The project involves state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo models, clinical human samples, and a variety of molecular biology methods, as well as analysis of clinical and epidemiological data. The research group is highly collaborative, with expertise in metabolism, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and translational medicine. Applicants with backgrounds in molecular medicine, biomedicine, biology, bioinformatics, or biomedical engineering are encouraged to apply, especially those with experience in cell culture, animal handling, molecular techniques, and data analysis.

The second project, supervised by Professor Maria Åberg, is titled 'A Workplace Intervention in the Construction Industry to Reduce Anxiety Disorders, Pain, Hypertension, and Sick Leave.' This PhD project aims to evaluate a workplace intervention to prevent anxiety and its complications among construction workers in Sweden. The intervention includes a person-centered dialogue with a coach and a tailored physical exercise program. The research will use a cluster-randomized clinical trial design, enrolling workers from multiple construction companies, and will assess outcomes such as anxiety, depression, pain, hypertension, and sick leave. Applicants with experience in cognitive testing, supportive conversations, qualitative methods, sports psychology, and sports medicine are preferred. Proficiency in Swedish and English is required.

Both positions are full-time, salaried doctoral student employments for four years, with possible departmental duties up to 20%. Tuition is covered, and salaries are set individually. The positions require physical presence in Gothenburg, Sweden. Applicants must have a second-cycle degree or equivalent, meet English language requirements, and submit a complete application including a personal letter, CV, diploma, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. The application deadline is 2026-02-23. For more information, contact the respective supervisors or visit the university’s doctoral studies pages.

These opportunities offer a unique chance to engage in cutting-edge research in medical science, with a focus on cardiovascular, pulmonary, and public health challenges, in a supportive and diverse academic environment at the University of Gothenburg.