Anniina Vihervaara

Doctoral Student in Molecular Genomics at KTH Royal Institute of Technology This fully funded 4-year PhD position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the mechanisms of RNA synthesis and genome regulation. The project is situated within the field of Biotechnology and focuses on understanding how chromatin architecture and transcription are coordinated during cellular stress, differentiation, and disease states, including infections and cancer. The research utilizes and develops advanced techniques to track RNA synthesis at nucleotide resolution, analyzing the roles of various RNA Polymerase complexes (RNA Pol I-III, mitochondrial RNA Pol, and viral RNA-directed RNA synthesis). The project involves genome-wide assessments in models of differentiation, stress, and disease, providing a comprehensive approach to understanding gene regulation in health and disease. The doctoral student will be supervised by Assistant Professor Anniina Vihervaara and will join a dynamic research environment at KTH, a leading international technical university. The position includes a monthly salary according to KTH's doctoral student salary agreement, full employee benefits, and access to excellent research facilities. Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must hold a master's degree (or equivalent) in biosciences such as molecular biology, cell biology, virology, or medicine, or have completed at least 240 higher education credits (with at least 60 at the second-cycle level), or possess equivalent knowledge. Required skills include experience with molecular laboratory methods (DNA, RNA, protein analysis), cell culture, and genome analysis (sequencing libraries, fastq-files, sequence alignment, genome browsing). A good understanding of cellular mechanisms during differentiation, stress, or disease is essential. English proficiency equivalent to English B/6 is mandatory. Meriting skills include experience with microscopy (especially live cell or high-resolution), research with viruses or bacteria, and spatial analysis (spatial transcriptomics/proteomics). Personal qualities such as goal orientation, perseverance, independence, collaboration, professionalism, and analytical ability are also important. Application Process: Applications must be submitted through KTH's recruitment system by the deadline of April 2, 2026. Required documents include a CV, application letter (max 2 pages), diplomas, grades, language certificates, and representative publications or technical reports. All documents must be certified and translated into English or Swedish if not originally issued in these languages. Only those admitted to postgraduate education may be employed as a doctoral student. The position is full-time and temporary, with the possibility of renewal according to KTH regulations. KTH is committed to equality, diversity, and providing a creative and dynamic environment for research and education. The university offers attractive benefits and opportunities for professional growth. For further information, contact Assistant Professor Anniina Vihervaara at [email protected]. For more details and to apply, visit the official application page: KTH Application Portal .