Karolinska Institutet invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Structural Virology within the Department of Medicine, Solna. The successful candidate will join Dr. Leo Hanke’s research group at BioClinicum, focusing on resolving the molecular mechanisms of viral infection, entry, replication, and immune recognition using state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and nanobody-based approaches.
Quick Overview: Position Highlights
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Structural Virology, Cryo-EM, Molecular Biology & Biophysics |
| Host Institution | Karolinska Institutet (Department of Medicine, Solna) |
| Location | BioClinicum, Karolinska University Hospital site, Solna, Sweden |
| Eligibility | PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or related fields (preferably awarded within the last 3 years) |
| Application Mode | Online via Varbi Recruitment System |
| Last Date to Apply | Open immediately (check official portal for specific closing dates; apply as soon as possible) |
Job Description & Mission
The Leo Hanke research team studies highly pathogenic RNA viruses by coupling functional, structural, and molecular methods. The primary objective is to elucidate fundamental mechanisms of virus biology to drive the rational development of antiviral therapeutics, vaccines, and pandemic preparedness strategies.
As a Postdoctoral Researcher, your key responsibilities will include:
- Structural Characterization: Investigate viral and host proteins using single-particle cryo-EM, supported by biochemical, biophysical, and functional analyses.
- End-to-End Workflow: Carry out sample optimization, grid preparation, high-resolution data acquisition at national cryo-EM facilities, image processing, 3D reconstruction, atomic model building, and structural interpretation.
- Nanobody Technologies: Exploit antigen-specific nanobodies as structural and functional probes to trap transient conformational intermediates and determine neutralization mechanisms.
- Data Integration: Interface structural observations with virological and immunological data gathered across the research team.
- Project Leadership: Advance defined team projects while developing your own independent scientific avenues with full mentorship and academic freedom.
Eligibility Criteria & Desired Qualifications
Mandatory Requirements
- A doctoral degree (PhD) or foreign equivalent in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline. The degree must be officially completed prior to the employment start date.
- Documented experience in single-particle cryo-EM, demonstrated by an established publication record.
- Extensive practical proficiency in recombinant protein expression and purification, particularly involving complex or fragile assemblies.
- Proven expertise in cryo-EM grid preparation, sample screening, and data acquisition.
- Proficiency in standard cryo-EM computational suites (e.g., RELION, cryoSPARC) as well as model building and refinement software (e.g., Coot, Phenix, ChimeraX).
- Excellent command of written and spoken English.
Preferred Assets
- Doctoral degree completed within the last three years (extensions considered for special grounds such as parental leave, illness, or military service).
- Hands-on experience with membrane proteins, viral envelope glycoproteins, antibody/nanobody engineering, X-ray crystallography, or AlphaFold-based predictive modelling.
- Strong problem-solving capacity, collaborative aptitude in interdisciplinary environments, and scientific creativity.
What We Offer
Karolinska Institutet is Sweden’s foremost medical research university, globally recognized for its excellence in biomedical science and close integration with the healthcare ecosystem. Postdoctoral researchers benefit from:
- Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure at BioClinicum and national core facilities.
- An international, interdisciplinary, and dynamic scientific community.
- Favorable working conditions under Swedish collective university agreements (RALS/RALS-T), providing comprehensive social security, health, and pension benefits.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically via the Karolinska Institutet Varbi recruitment portal. Submissions must be written in English or Swedish and should include the following documents combined into standard format:
- PhD Degree Certificate (or formal verification of expected completion date).
- Curriculum Vitae: Detailed CV including defense date, thesis title, academic positions held, current appointment, distinctions, and scientific service.
- Complete Publication List: Highlighting your contributions in structural biology.
- Summary of Current Work: A concise outline of ongoing/past research accomplishments (maximum one page).
Application Links & Deadline
Last Date for Application: Applicants are strongly advised to submit their materials promptly via the portal, as applications are assessed continuously until the vacancy is filled.
Apply Online via Karolinska Institutet Portal
