Postdoctoral studies in virology, metabolism, and tumor biology (scholarship) Karolinska Institutet in Sweden

Karolinska Institutet invites applications for a postdoctoral scholarship in virology, metabolism, and tumor biology, focusing on the mechanistic and therapeutic role of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in brain cancer. This position is part of a multidisciplinary research team led by Professors Cecilia Söderberg-Nauclér and Jiri Bartek, collaborating with the University of Turku and the Danish Cancer Institute. The project aims to characterize a newly identified HCMV-cancer-associated virus, elucidate its replication and spread, and explore its impact on host cell metabolism and oncogenic transformation, particularly in glioblastoma (GBM), the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor.

Research will integrate basic, translational, and clinical approaches to uncover how viral infection drives DNA damage, cell-cycle checkpoint interference, inflammation, and metabolic rewiring, especially under radiotherapy-induced stress. The project leverages experimental models, patient samples, antiviral strategies, metabolic targeting, and AI-based drug discovery to identify novel therapeutic approaches. Key goals include identifying cellular activation signals for metabolic rewiring, assessing antiviral and antimetabolic strategies, discovering new antiviral compounds via AI modeling and chemical library screening, and determining the prevalence of the virus in various tissues.

Responsibilities include performing cell and molecular biology and virology experiments, investigating mitochondrial function and redox regulation, identifying intracellular signaling pathways, studying viral replication and oncogenic mechanisms, collaborating with international partners, publishing in high-impact journals, and contributing to grant applications. The position is based in the Department of Medicine, Solna, within SciLifeLab and the Center for Molecular Medicine at Karolinska Institutet, offering a creative and inspiring environment with access to modern facilities and interdisciplinary expertise.

Eligibility requires a Ph.D. in relevant fields (cell biology, virology, molecular biology, metabolic research, medicine, life sciences), scientific excellence, strong analytical and organizational skills, and proficiency in English. Preferred qualifications include hands-on experience with DNA/RNA viruses, intracellular signaling, DNA damage responses, mitochondrial biology, metabolic profiling, cell-cycle regulation, advanced cell culture models, viral replication assays, and imaging. Only foreign researchers who have not studied or resided in Sweden are eligible for the scholarship, which is tax-free and granted for up to two years, paid out in twelve-month periods (six months at a time).

Applicants must submit a complete CV, publication list, and a summary of current work via the Varbi recruitment system. The application deadline is January 22, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Cecilia Söderberg-Nauclér at [email protected].