Erik Benson

PhD position available at Karolinska Institutet / SciLifeLab in Sweden, in the research group of Erik Benson (Assistant Professor). The project sits at the intersection of biology , biomedical engineering , chemistry , and computer science , with a focus on nucleic acid nanotechnology , selection experiments , and the design of RNA nanostructures . The successful PhD student will work on building libraries of RNA nanostructures and evaluating which designs perform best. The post emphasizes a research environment with freedom to experiment and welcomes applicants from many different backgrounds, especially those interested in combining experimental and computational approaches. This is a doctoral opening rather than a scholarship announcement. The post does not mention a deadline, stipend amount, or specific eligibility thresholds such as GPA or language scores. Interested candidates should apply through the linked online application portal.

Karolinska Institutet, a world-leading medical university in Sweden, is offering a postdoctoral position in the bioinformatics of DNA nanostructure selection. The position is based in the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), specifically within the Benson group, which focuses on combining DNA nanotechnology with selection and sequencing to discover DNA structures for pathogen binding or drug delivery. The research environment is highly interdisciplinary, located at Scilifelab and shared with KTH and Stockholm University. The successful candidate will develop new computational tools to analyze sequencing data from selection experiments, integrating high-throughput sequencing datasets (Oxford nanopore and Illumina) with reference data from negative selection experiments. The project aims to decode the selection process and drive candidate DNA nanostructure selection, potentially including high-throughput structure prediction and experimental work depending on the applicant's fit. Eligibility requires a PhD or equivalent in biophysics, computational biology, bioinformatics, nanotechnology, or a closely related field, ideally completed within the last three years. Strong programming skills (e.g., Python), experience with sequencing data analysis, excellent communication, and a collaborative mindset are essential. Additional merits include experience with data processing pipelines for sequencing, in vitro selection data, and unique molecular identifiers (UMIs). The position is full-time and temporary, with a monthly salary and benefits provided by Karolinska Institutet's collective agreement. The application deadline is January 4, 2026. Applicants should submit a PhD certificate, complete resumé, publication list, and a summary of current work through the Varbi recruitment system. For further details, visit the Benson Lab website or the official job posting. This opportunity allows you to work at the forefront of interdisciplinary research in bioinformatics, DNA nanotechnology, and medical science, contributing to better health for all.