Clinical assistant in radiation biology

The Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, particularly the Division of Paediatric Oncology and Paediadtric Surgery, performs research aiming to improve the survival, quality of life, care and treatment of children and adolescents with cancer or haematological diseases. Located in the Solna Campus, it offers an excellent international environment, favouring professional development and networking.

We are a multidisciplinary team using state-of-the-art multilevel approaches to study the effects of cranial radiotherapy on the juvenile brain. Our aim is to design new therapeutic strategies to improve the outcome and quality of life of the growing population of paediatric brain cancer survivors, particularly those who underwent cranial radiotherapy.

Our research group has been involved in seminal works describing the effects of ionising radiation in the juvenile brain and using lithium (among other drugs and therapeutics strategies) to minimise these effects. Regarding lithium, we have shown that it protects the brain from acute radiation injuries without protecting or promoting the growth of malignant cells (Cancer Research, 2006), even when administered long after cranial irradiation (Molecular Psychiatry, 2021). Moreover, lithium prevents radiation-induced cognitive deficits (Molecular Psychiatry, 2021; Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, 2012) and increases the hippocampal proliferation of the neural stem and progenitor cells (Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism, 2013; Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience, 2018). However, despite the collected evidence supporting the efficacy of lithium in preventing radiation-induced late cognitive impairment, its mechanisms of action remain elusive, as does the pathophysiology of radiation-induced brain damage.

In this context, the candidate is expected to combine and interpret previously attained data from single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics and electrophysiology and complement by designing functional behaviour analysis and cell metabolism studies. The ultimate goals of this project are to simultaneously assess the effects of radiation on the juvenile brain, the mechanism of action of lithium and the ability of lithium to become the first pharmacological treatment for cranial radiotherapy-induced cognitive impairment. For this project, we are looking for a clinical assistant for a temporary position.

The candidate should be team-oriented and add to the excellent working environment of the group. Moreover, the applicant is expected to be able to multitask, work independently and provide guidance and support to the students in the laboratory. A master’s degree in Medicine is required, and preference will be given to candidates with previous experience in the following areas:

• - Radiation biology and Radiotherapy - certification in radiation protection and experience in animal irradiation are meritorious;
• - Rodent models of brain disease - LAS/FELASA certification is a plus;
• - Cancer biology and cellular senescence;
• - Bioenergetics and cell metabolism;
• - Basic cellular and molecular neuroscience techniques (brain collection and handling; free-floating immunohistochemistry; RT-qPCR; Western-blotting);
• - Teaching and student supervision.

A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.

Location: Solna

https://ki.se/en/kbh/pediatric-oncology

https://medarbetare.ki.se/people/klas-blomgren

The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system.In this recruitment, you will apply with your CV without a personal letter. Instead, you will answer some questions about why you are applying for the job in the application form.