Summary
The University of Gothenburg is seeking a highly motivated doctoral student for a research project investigating the role of gut mucosal phages in cardiometabolic disease. This four-year full-time PhD position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational medical science, combining clinical cohorts, molecular biology techniques, and advanced data analysis.
Designation
Doctoral Student (PhD Candidate)
Research Area
Medical Science, specifically focusing on Bacteriophages, Gut Mucosal Health, Chronic Inflammation, and Cardiometabolic Diseases (e.g., fatty liver disease, atherosclerosis).
Location
Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Medicine, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Eligibility/Qualification
General Eligibility for Doctoral Studies:
- Completed a degree at second-cycle level (Master’s degree), OR
- Fulfilled course requirements totaling at least 240 credits, of which at least 60 credits must be at second-cycle level, OR
- Acquired equivalent knowledge through other means, in Sweden or abroad.
Specific Entry Requirements:
- Completed English B/6 course, OR
- Acquired equivalent knowledge through previous studies.
Assessment Criteria (for selection among eligible applicants):
Particular importance will be attached to documented qualifications in:
- Specific knowledge and skills within the subject area and related research fields.
- Experience of scientific theory and relevant research methodology.
- Scientific analysis and presentation, verified through academic papers, degree projects, scientific journals, or similar.
Job Description
The PhD education in Medical Science involves carrying out a scientific project and completing at least 30 credits of third-cycle level courses. The doctoral student will also write a scientific compilation thesis or monograph corresponding to at least 120 credits. The studies are full-time for four years, leading to a doctoral degree. Up to 20% of the employment may involve departmental duties (e.g., teaching, research, administration), which will extend the study period accordingly.
Project Description: The role of gut mucosal phages in cardiometabolic disease
Phages (viruses that infect bacteria) are abundant in the human gut, particularly enriched in the mucus layer. When fiber intake is low, gut bacteria may degrade mucin glycoproteins for nutrition, releasing attached phages. These small phages could then cross gut barriers, potentially triggering inappropriate antiviral immune responses that contribute to chronic inflammation and cardiometabolic diseases.
The project will investigate whether the disruption of the phage-bacteria-gut mucosal cell relationship explains the link between low fiber intake and cardiometabolic diseases. The doctoral student will:
- Study how phage composition, translocation across the gut barrier, and antiviral immune responses differ in colon mucosa with normal vs. impaired mucus protection.
- Determine the effects of a fiber-based dietary intervention designed to prevent excessive mucus degradation.
- Develop a model to predict gut mucosal barrier disruption, which will be evaluated in non-invasive samples from individuals with cardiometabolic diseases (e.g., fatty liver disease, atherosclerosis) and healthy controls.
This project offers a solid foundation in translational medical science.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure the application is complete and received by the deadline. Required documents (in PDF format) include:
- Personal letter
- CV
- Diploma and transcripts demonstrating general entry requirements.
- Proof of completion of English 6 course or equivalent knowledge.
- For degrees from outside Sweden, ensure diplomas and full transcripts clearly assess the degree.
For information on English language requirements, visit: https://www.universityadmissions.se/en/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
Contact Information:
For project-related inquiries, please contact the project supervisor:
- Karolina Sjöberg Jabbar, Institute of Medicine
- Email: karolina.sjoberg@wlab.gu.se
Information for international applicants regarding benefits and life in Gothenburg can be found at:
Last Date for Apply
October 16, 2026
Apply Link
Apply via University of Gothenburg Recruitment Portal
