Fredrik Lanner

Karolinska Institutet is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for a translational project on scalable manufacturing of retinal cells from pluripotent stem cells. The work is based in the Lanner Lab at the Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), within the division of obstetrics and gynecology, and is focused on developing methods to generate retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPEs) and photoreceptor cells for future retinal repair applications. The project aims to establish a scalable bioprocess strategy for the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into retinal cells and tissues. A key emphasis is the use of scalable culture modalities and bioreactors to move the work toward clinically compatible production. The research includes culturing and differentiating pluripotent stem cells, cell isolation, genetic analysis, microscopy, and work with retinal microtissues. Produced cells and microtissues will be evaluated in animal models in collaboration with Professor Anders Kvanta and Dr. Filippo Locri. The longer-term goal is to optimize the method for future clinical trials and make it compatible with clinical manufacturing requirements. The position is highly relevant for candidates interested in stem cell biology, retinal development, regenerative medicine, ophthalmology, and bioprocess development. It sits in a collaborative environment with industrial partners and offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at treating age-related macular degeneration and restoring vision. Eligibility requires a PhD or an equivalent foreign degree, to be completed by the time of the employment decision. A recent doctorate is advantageous. Strong prior experience in differentiation of pluripotent stem cells is required, and experience in retinal developmental biology, retinal cell production, flow cytometry, cell sorting, microscopy, bioreactors, and clinical cell production is especially valuable. Applicants should also have strong teamwork, communication, independence, organizational skills, and excellent English language ability. The position is a temporary full-time postdoctoral appointment at Karolinska Institutet in Flemingsberg, Sweden. The application deadline is 2026-07-31.