Doctoral (PhD) student position in Colorectal Cancer

Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?

To be a doctoral student means to devote oneself to a research project under supervision of experienced researchers and following an individual study plan. For a doctoral degree, the equivalent of four years of full-time doctoral education is required.

The research group

The Colorectal Surgery research group originates from clinical practice in lower gastrointestinal surgery. Its primary focus is cancer research, employing a multidisciplinary approach that encompasses surgery, radiotherapy, and other oncological treatments. The group conducts epidemiological, translational, and clinical research. The overarching aim is to contribute to a reduced incidence of disease and improved survival among individuals affected by conditions of these organs.

The doctoral student project and the duties of the doctoral student

The PhD project aims to develop a more personalized treatment approach for colorectal cancer by investigating the effect of low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) following surgery in patients with specific genetic alterations in the PI3K signaling pathway. The project builds upon the findings of the Nordic ALASCCA study, which demonstrated that adjuvant aspirin therapy may reduce the risk of disease recurrence in selected patient populations.

The doctoral student’s primary responsibilities will include

• Analyzing data from the ALASCCA study and the Swedish colorectal cancer quality registry database (CRCBaSe) to identify patients who derive the greatest benefit from aspirin treatment. Conducting epidemiological and clinical research studies, including advanced statistical analyses of large patient cohorts.
• The project is predominantly clinical and translational in nature and aims to improve treatment strategies and follow-up care for patients with colorectal cancer, while also contributing to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which aspirin exerts its effects in cancer.

What do we offer?

A creative and inspiring environment full of expertise and curiosity. 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. As a doctoral student you are offered an individual research project, a well-educated supervisor, a vast range of elective courses and the opportunity to work in a leading research group. Karolinska Institutet collaborates with prominent universities from all around the world, which ensures opportunities for international exchanges. You will be employed on a doctoral studentship which means that you receive a contractual salary. Employees also have access to our modern gym for free and receive reimbursements for medical care.

Eligibility requirements for doctoral education

In order to participate in the selection for a doctoral position, you must meet the following general (A) and specific (B) eligibility requirements at latest by the application deadline.

It is your responsibility to certify eligibility by following the instructions on the web page Entry requirements (eligibility) for doctoral education.

A) General eligibility requirement

You meet the general eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

• have been awarded a second-cycle/advanced/master qualification (i.e. master degree), or
• have satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the advanced/second-cycle/master level, or
• have acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.*

Follow the instructions on the web page Entry requirements (eligibility) for doctoral education.

*If you claim equivalent knowledge, follow the instructions on the web page Assessing equivalent knowledge for general eligibility for doctoral education.

B) Specific eligibility requirement

You meet the specific eligibility requirement for doctoral/third-cycle/PhD education if you:

• Show proficiency in English equivalent to the course English B/English 6 at Swedish upper secondary school.

Follow the instructions on the web page English language requirements for doctoral education.

Verification of your documents Karolinska Institutet checks the authenticity of your documents. Karolinska Institutet reserves the right to revoke admission if supporting documents are discovered to be fraudulent. Submission of false documents is a violation of Swedish law and is considered grounds for legal action.

(A) and (B) can only be certified by the documentation requirement for doctoral education .

Skills and personal qualities

Skills

• A strong interest in clinical and translational cancer research, particularly within colorectal cancer.
• The ability to critically analyze and interpret medical and scientific data.
• An interest in epidemiology, registry-based research, and biostatistics.
• Experience of, or a strong interest in, working with large clinical databases and patient cohorts.
• Basic knowledge of mathematics, statistical methods, and data management, which will be considered a merit.
• The ability to independently plan, conduct, and disseminate research projects. Excellent scientific communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Medical training is required.

Personal Qualities

The successful candidate is expected to be intellectually curious, highly motivated, and committed to pursuing a research career within academic medicine. Particular emphasis will be placed on:

• Strong analytical skills and a structured approach to problem-solving.
• Attention to detail and a high level of scientific rigor in the management and interpretation of research data.
• Independence and initiative, with the capacity to drive research projects forward.
• Persistence and dedication to long-term research objectives.
• Excellent collaborative skills and an interest in working within multidisciplinary and internationally oriented research environments.
• A genuine commitment to advancing personalized cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes.
• The ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously while meeting project deadlines.

Terms and conditions

The doctoral student will be employed on a doctoral studentship maximum 4 years full-time.

Application process

Submit your application and supporting documents through the Varbi recruitment system. Use the button in the top right corner and follow the instructions. We prefer that your application is written in English, but you can also apply in Swedish.

Your application must contain the following documents

• A personal letter and a curriculum vitae
• Degree projects and previous publications, if any
• Any other documentation showing the desirable skills and personal qualities described above
• Documents certifying your general eligibility (see A above)
• Documents certifying your specific eligibility (see B above)

Selection

A selection will be made among eligible applicants on the basis of the ability to benefit from doctoral education. The qualifications of the applicants will be evaluated on an overall basis.

Karolinska Institutet uses the following bases of assessment:

• Documented subject knowledge of relevance to the area of research
• Analytical skill
• Other documented knowledge or experience that may be relevant to doctoral studies in the subject.

All applicants will be informed when the recruitment is completed.

KI applies a salary scale when setting salaries for doctoral students.

Colorectal Surgery – Anna Martling and Caroline Nordenvall's research group

Want to make a difference? Join us and contribute to better health for all