Research Specialist in neurodegenerative disease mechanisms with focus on Alzheimer disease therapy

The Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS) conducts world leading research in aging, dementia, epidemiology and care sciences. This research extends from basic molecular and cell levels to clinical research and societal studies. NVS educates almost a third of KI students at basic and advanced levels. The Department has approximately 450 employees and a revenue 2019 of 497 million SEK. It comprises seven divisions, located at Campus Flemingsberg and Campus Solna.

The Division of Neurogeriatric consists of about 65 employees. The division conducts experimental and translational research related primarily to Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, but also more general molecular mechanisms with biomedical relevance are studied. The division is mainly located in BioClinicum, KI Campus Solna, and partially in Neo, KI Campus Flemingsberg.

The project aims to explore novel therapeutic concepts for Alzheimer disease (AD) based on regulation of function of molecular chaperones or other systems responsible for intracellular protein folding and degradation. The project involves studies of biological effects using human cells and AD-related mouse models.

We are looking for an experienced research specialist with capacity to both take active part in and lead the experimental lab work. The  position is for one year with a possible extension of maximum one year and will be located at the KI Campus Solna in BioClinicum.

The position involves analysis of potential drugs that target processes relevant for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Specifically, the function of regulatory components and potential drugs will be assessed in cell lines and mouse models, which are related to AD. Alzheimer disease and other neurodegenerative diseases are associated with aggregation of certain proteins such as beta-amyloid and tau.

This project focuses on drug development in AD via inhibition of tau aggregation by development of small molecule ligands, targeting protein- protein interaction. We are also interested in connection between tau aggregation and insulin resistance. We combine structural biology techniques such as computer aided drug design, biochemical and biophysical methods to develop novel ligands as potential drug candidates for AD. We investigate the biological effects of these molecules and validate them in proof-of-concept experiments. The duties include in silico drug design using virtual screening, hit-to-lead compound development, lead optimization, implementation of biochemical assays for compound screening, target characterization in vitro in cell models and in vivo in various AD-related mice models.

To be eligible for employment as a Research Specialist, in addition to holding a Degree of Doctor, PhD, or having equivalent scientific expertise, the applicant must have demonstrated research expertise as well as have documented research experience after defending their doctoral dissertation.

You should preferably have a PhD in biomedicine, cell biology, biochemistry or similar topic. Documented experience with cell and animal models in neurodegenerative diseases is qualifying, including scientific publications in this research area. You should master the above described, required technologies.

You are expected to have a strong drive to pursue experimental research and an ambitious and innovative attitude. The project is pursued in collaboration with other researchers why documented good collaborative skills are necessary. Good ability to speak and write English is a requirement.

After an overall assessment of the expertise and merits of the applicants in relation to the subject area, Karolinska Institutet will determine which of them has the best potential to contribute to a positive development of the activities at KI.

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 a state university, which entitles to several benefits such as extended holiday and generous occupational pension. Employees also have access to our modern gym for free and receive reimbursements for medical care.

Location: Solna

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We prefer that Your application is written in English, but You can also apply in Swedish. An application must contain the following documents: Resumé, qualifications and description of planned research, presented in accordance with Karolinska Institutet's qualifications portfolio.

Welcome to apply at the latest September 15th 2021.

The application must be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system.