Gerald McInerney

A postdoctoral scholarship position is available in the research group of Professor Gerald McInerney at the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. The position focuses on viral proteomics, specifically applying and developing mass spectrometry-based methods to uncover novel protein-protein interactions relevant to virus infections. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team in the Biomedicum building, with access to advanced facilities including a Bruker timsTOF Pro 2 LC-MS System and a well-equipped BSL3 laboratory. The research group investigates the cell biology of virus infection, with a particular interest in alphaviruses such as chikungunya virus. The division collaborates widely in virology, immunology, vaccinology, structural biology, biophysics, and computational biology. The candidate will be co-mentored by Assistant Professor Andrea Fossati and will contribute to ongoing and future projects, as well as the supervision and training of students and junior staff. Applicants must have or be about to obtain a PhD in proteomics, cell biology, virology, or a related field. Essential skills include hands-on experience with MS sample preparation, knowledge of untargeted proteomics acquisition schemes (DIA, DDA), and experience analyzing MS datasets with tools such as Fragpipe, MaxQuant, DIA-NN, Spectronaut, or EncyclopeDIA. Proficiency in Python or R, strong communication skills in English, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are required. Additional merits include experience with Bruker TimsTOF systems, targeted proteomics, interactomics, thermal proteome profiling, and large reference databases. The scholarship is tax-free, set for twelve months at a time (paid out every six months), and can be held for up to two years within four years of receiving a doctoral degree. Candidates are encouraged to seek external funding to extend the contract. Only foreign researchers who have not completed their academic education in Sweden are eligible. The application deadline is February 13, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the Varbi recruitment system or contact Prof. Gerald McInerney.

This doctoral (PhD) student position in Molecular Virology is offered at Karolinska Institutet, one of the world's leading medical universities, within the Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC). The position is based in Professor Gerald McInerney’s research group, which focuses on the cell biology of virus infection, particularly alphaviruses such as chikungunya virus. The group is multidisciplinary and collaborates widely in fields including virology, immunology, vaccinology, structural biology, biophysics, and computational biology. The research project centers on understanding the structure and function of replication organelles (ROs) in alphaviruses, which are critical for viral RNA replication and evasion of cellular defenses. The project will use advanced techniques in proteomics, structural biology, biochemistry, and computational biology, and is part of a collaboration with Umeå University. The successful candidate will gain in-depth knowledge in virology, molecular and cell biology, proteomics, and protein engineering. The position offers a creative and inspiring research environment, access to a wide range of elective courses, and opportunities for international collaboration. The doctoral studentship includes a contractual salary for up to four years full-time, with additional benefits such as free gym access and medical care reimbursements. Applicants must have a master’s degree or equivalent, proficiency in English, and documented experience in relevant disciplines. Strong motivation, creativity, and collaborative skills are essential. Applications are submitted via the Varbi recruitment system and must include a personal letter, CV, degree projects, publications, and documentation of eligibility. The selection is based on subject knowledge, analytical skill, and overall qualifications. For more information, visit the group’s academic page or contact Professor Gerald McInerney.