PhD student in Medical Science

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We are looking for a PhD student in Medical Science

Your work assignments

We are seeking a motivated and curious PhD student to join our research team exploring the modulation and pharmacology of proton-activated chloride channels ( www.heusserlab.com ). These ion channels have recently emerged as promising drug targets for e.g. ischemic stroke, cancer, and viral entry. Our goal is to better understand how the channels function and how small molecules can modulate their activity, ultimately contributing to the development of new therapeutic strategies.

The work includes molecular manipulation and expression of ion channels in different cells, functional characterization of channel activity using electrophysiology and fluorescence-based techniques, and screening of potential modulatory compounds. The project involves collaborations with computational research groups and integrates both manual and automated electrophysiological approaches.

As part of your training, you will develop the project, learn and apply the scientific approaches, and analyze your data. You will communicate your findings in scientific conferences and publications.

As a PhD student, you devote most of your time to doctoral studies and the research projects of which you are part. Your work may also include teaching or other departmental duties, up to a maximum of 20% of full-time.

Your qualifications

You have graduated at Master’s level in biology, biomedicine, pharmacology or a related field with a minimum of 240 credits, at least 60 of which must be in advanced courses in cell biology or related topics. Alternatively, you have gained essentially corresponding knowledge in another way.

The following education, experience and expertise are required:

• Experience with molecular biology techniques including mutagenesis, PCR, and DNA/RNA purification

• Basic knowledge of ion channels or membrane protein biology

• Ability to plan, organize and document experiments independently

• Strong written and spoken English communication skills

Priority will be given to candidates who have a strong background knowledge of ligand-gated channels and practical experience in the key experimental approaches:

• Electrophysiological techniques, such as patch-clamp or two-electrode voltage clamp

• Expression of ion channels in Xenopus laevis oocytes

• Knowledge of peptide design, synthesis, or purification

• Experience with compound screening or drug discovery workflows

Emphasis will also be placed on personal qualities and suitability.

Please include a letter of intent clarifying how you fulfill the above requirements in your application.

Your workplace

Our group is part of the Linköping University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV) and the Division of Cell and Neurobiology (CNB) , which carries out research, undergraduate and postgraduate education within Medical Science. We are also members of the prestigious Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, which focuses on the interface between science, medicine and technology.

The employment

In connection with your admission to the doctoral program, your employment as a PhD student is handled. More information about the doctoral studies at each faculty is available at  Doctoral studies at Linköping University

The employment has a duration of normally four years’ full-time equivalent. Extension of employment up to five years is based on the degree of teaching and institutional assignment. Further extensions may be granted in exceptional circumstances. You will initially be employed for one year, after which your employment will be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time, depending on your progress through the study plan.

Starting date upon agreement.

Salary: and employment benefits

The salary of PhD students is determined according to a locally negotiated salary progression. The starting salary is SEK 33,700 per month (2026 salary level). The salary is reviewed annually as part of the regular salary review process and is also adjusted upon completion of 30% and 60% of the PhD studies.

More information about employment benefits at Linköping University is available here.

Union representatives

Information about union representatives, see Help for applicants .

Application procedure

Apply for the position by clicking the “Apply” button below. Your application must reach Linköping University no later than November 11, 2026.

Applications and documents received after the date above will not be considered.

We welcome applicants with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives - diversity enriches our work and helps us grow. Preserving everybody's equal value, rights and opportunities is a natural part of who we are. Read more about our work with: Equal opportunities .

We look forward to receiving your application!

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