PhD and Postdoc Positions in Stem Cell Aging, Metabolism, and Healthy Aging Research

The Lengefeld Lab, led by Assistant Professor Jette Lengefeld at the University of Helsinki and Karolinska Institute, is offering two PhD and two postdoctoral positions in the field of stem cell aging, metabolism, and healthy aging research. The lab is supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, European Research Council, Swedish Research Council, and other prestigious funding bodies. Research in the lab focuses on understanding how stem cells age, the impact of cellular enlargement on stem cell function, and the development of therapeutic approaches to maintain stem cell health during aging and disease prevention. Key research areas include identifying cellular pathways that cause stem cell dysfunction during enlargement, rejuvenating stem cells by preventing their enlargement, and investigating whether dysregulation of stem cell size promotes cancer. The lab primarily uses blood (hematopoietic) stem cells and employs molecular profiling and mouse models to uncover the mechanisms underlying stem cell aging and metabolism. The research aims to extend health-span and address major biomedical challenges related to aging. The positions are based at the University of Helsinki (Finland) and Karolinska Institute (Sweden), both internationally recognized institutions with strong biomedical research environments. Applicants should have a background in biology, biomedical sciences, or related fields. For PhD positions, a master's degree is required; for postdoc positions, a PhD is necessary. Experience with molecular profiling, mouse models, or stem cell research is advantageous. The lab offers a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment with excellent infrastructure and funding for research and salary support. Interested candidates should visit jobs.helsinki.fi to view open positions and submit their applications by March 1, 2026. The lab encourages motivated researchers passionate about aging, metabolism, and stem cell biology to apply and join their collaborative team.