PhD student in Chromatin & Genome Integrity (PA2026/2553)

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world’s top universities. The University has around 46 000 students and 8 500 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain and improve our world and the human condition.

The Chromatin & Genome Integrity Lab (Stem Cell Center & Department of Experimental Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine), led by Dr. Giulia Saredi, studies the mechanisms that regulate chromatin structure and genome stability in human cells, and how these processes safeguard human health. The lab fosters a respectful and inclusive environment, with a strong emphasis on open communication and scientific curiosity. We believe that impactful research is best achieved through collaboration and the exchange of ideas; the successful candidate will be encouraged to actively engage in the group’s scientific activities and to develop their skills in a supportive research setting.

This PhD project will investigate how chromatin structure is maintained during the cellular response to DNA damage and how these processes safeguard genome and epigenome integrity. The successful candidate will combine cell biology, biochemistry, high-content imaging, and state-of-the-art genomic and epigenomic approaches to study chromatin dynamics in human cells and stem cell-derived neuronal models. The project will generate fundamental insights into the chromatin-based mechanisms that preserve (epi)genome integrity and prevent human disease.

The main task for a doctoral student is to devote yourself to your doctoral studies, therefore you will be both admitted as a student and employed at Lund University.

The successful candidate is expected to lead their research project under the supervision of the group leader and to actively engage in the intellectual and practical activities of the research group, including lab meetings, scientific discussions, and laboratory organization.

• A second-cycle degree, completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits at the second-cycle level, or in some other way acquired essentially equivalent knowledge within or outside the country.
• Good ability to utilize the doctoral studies

• You have expertise in studying chromatin biology and DNA repair mechanisms in human cells.
• You have experience in human cell culture techniques as well as knowledge of human iPSCs culturing.
• You have expertise in molecular cloning, western blotting, and quantitative image-based microscopy.
• You have experience in performing assays to study genome stability and to determine cell survival in response to genotoxic drug treatment.
• You have a high level of fluency in written and spoken English.
• You have a high level of self-motivation and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Great emphasis will be placed on how the applicant, through his/her experience and competence, is judged to have the ability needed to complete the doctoral studies

Lund University is a government agency, which means that you get special benefits, generous holidays and a favourable occupational pension.  As a doctoral student at Lund University, you are both admitted as a student and employed, which gives you several benefits. Read more about being admitted and employed  at the university's website.

Find out more on the University website about working with us Work for us

The employment is a fixed-term employment for a total of four years, 100% with start date on 1st January 2027 or as agreed. The main rule is that employment at Lund University is conducted in Sweden, you are therefore expected to be able to perform your work on site in Lund.

Rules and regulations concerning employment as a doctoral student can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), Chapter 5, Sections 1-7. Provisions regarding admission to doctoral studies are found in Chapter 6, Section 3 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). More information is available on the university's website

Interviews will be conducted online shortly after the application deadline.

You apply for the position via the university's recruitment system. The application should include a personal letter which explains why you are interested in the position, how the position matches your qualifications, as well as the names and contacts of two references. The application should also include your degree certificate and your CV.