Postdoctoral Studies in Virology and Lipid Metabolism (Scholarship) Karolinska Institutet in Sweden

This postdoctoral scholarship at Karolinska Institutet offers an exciting opportunity to join a multidisciplinary team investigating the role of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in brain cancer, with a particular focus on lipid metabolism. The project, titled “Causal Role, Mechanistic Impact, and Therapeutic Targeting of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in Brain Cancer,” aims to uncover how viral infection rewires host lipid metabolic pathways to drive oncogenic transformation in glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive primary brain tumor. The research integrates basic, translational, and clinical approaches, collaborating with the University of Turku and the Danish Cancer Institute.

Key research areas include characterizing cancer-associated viruses, defining their dependence on host lipid metabolism, and identifying therapeutic vulnerabilities. The project will utilize experimental model systems, patient material, metabolic and mitochondrial analyses, antiviral strategies, and AI-based drug discovery. Responsibilities involve conducting cell and molecular biology and virology experiments, investigating lipid metabolism and mitochondrial function, and collaborating with international partners. The ultimate goal is to identify lipid metabolic pathways essential for viral replication and tumor progression, and to develop novel antiviral and metabolic inhibitors.

The position is based in the Department of Medicine, Solna, at Karolinska Institutet, within a dynamic research environment led by Professors Cecilia Söderberg-Nauclér and Jiri Bartek. The team is renowned for its work in virology, cellular metabolism, replication stress, and ribosomal biology, with a strong emphasis on brain cancer. The department offers a creative and inspiring environment, access to modern facilities, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in a relevant field (cell biology, virology, molecular biology, metabolic research, medicine, life sciences, or closely related disciplines) and demonstrate scientific excellence, strong analytical skills, and experience in scientific writing and publishing. Preferred qualifications include expertise in lipid metabolism, mitochondrial biology, lipidomics, and experience with DNA/RNA viruses. The scholarship is open only to foreign researchers who have not completed academic education in Sweden and is intended to promote internationalization and research qualification after a doctorate. The scholarship is tax-free, granted for up to two years, and paid in twelve-month periods (six months at a time).

To apply, submit your application via the Varbi recruitment system, including a complete CV, list of publications, and a summary of current work. The application deadline is January 22, 2026. For more information, contact Professor Cecilia Söderberg-Nauclér at [email protected].