PhD student position (SKO 1017) is available at the Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute for Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo
A 3-year PhD student position (SKO 1017) is available at the Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute for Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo. The position is affiliated with the research group of associate professor Coen Campsteijn.
More about the position
The Campsteijn lab seeks a highly motivated PhD student candidate to study the molecular mechanisms that control cancer development.
Major breakthroughs over the last years have begun to uncover the importance of mechanical strains and altered nuclear architecture in the regulation of various cellular functions. Despite being the subject of intense studies in a rapidly expanding field, the processes associated with nuclear deformation or lapses in nuclear integrity and their long-term consequences on cell fate remain poorly understood.
The central aim of this project is to identify and characterize processes associated with altered nuclear shape and integrity, and to assess the selective pressures these impose on cancer development. The candidate will
- characterize the consequences of controlled chronic and intermittent mechanical strain regimes on nuclear architecture and integrity, cell proliferation and fidelity of cell division.
- integrate genetics, proteomics, transcriptomics and mechanobiology approaches to identify novel factors that respond to mechanical strain imposed on human (cancer) cell lines.
- perform mechanistic research to dissect and characterize these novel mechanisms.
- analyse whether and how alterations in nuclear architecture and integrity generate selective pressures that drive cancer evolution.
- further develop the spectrum of approaches to impose mechanical strain on cells.
To address these questions, the candidate will use a range of advanced molecular cell biology approaches including live-cell and ultrastructural microscopy, genetics and proteomics.
The Campsteijn group focuses on nuclear envelope dynamics in healthy cells, under pathological conditions and upon biomechanical stress. We draw on extensive experience using mechanistic cell biology to study cell division, nuclear envelope dynamics and integrity, genome stability and nuclear biology, in a range of cancer cell models. Local research infrastructure includes a well-equipped laboratory and access to advanced (live-cell) microscopy, mechanobiology setups, genetics and proteomics facilities, amongst others.
Depending on the candidate, the position can be expanded to 4 years by including 25% teaching and supervision tasks.
The research fellow must take part in the Faculty’s/ approved PhD program and is expected to complete the project within the set fellowship period. The main purpose of the fellowship is research training leading to the successful completion of a PhD degree.
Qualification requirements
- A master’s degree in molecular cell biology, biochemistry or equivalent.The Master’s degree must have a minimum grade B (ECTS grading scale) or equivalent, and include a thesis of at least 30 ECTS.
- A strong drive for fundamental mechanistic cell biology research
- Motivation for the position and commitment to carry out high-level research
- Eagerness to integrate and work in a versatile and cross-disciplinary team
- The ability to take scientific initiatives and troubleshoot complex challenges
- Excellent communication skills, including proficiency in spoken and written English
- Experience with relevant research topics, techniques, and image data analysis will be a major advantage
We offer
- A challenging, stimulating and attractive working environment
- Involvement in ambitious mechanistic cell biology projects involving a wide range of experimental approaches
- Salary NOK 491 200 – 534 400 per annum depending on qualifications in a position as PhD Research fellow, (position code 1017)
- Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities
- Opportunities and support for career development
How to apply
The application must include
- Application letter including statement of motivation for this PhD position
- CV summarizing education, positions and relevant work experience including research
- Complete list of publications
- Copies of educational certificates
- List of 2-3 references stating relation to the candidate, with contact information
- Application material should be in English
The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system, please follow the link “apply for this job”. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University’s grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).
When evaluating the application, emphasis will be given to the applicant’s academic and personal prerequisites to carry out the project. Applicants may be called in for an interview.
Formal regulations
Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Research Fellowships at the University of Oslo.
No one can be appointed for more than one PhD Research Fellowship period at the University of Oslo.
According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.
The appointment may be shortened/given a more limited scope within the framework of the applicable guidelines on account of any previous employment in academic positions.
The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.
Inclusion and diversity are a strength. The University of Oslo has a personnel policy objective of achieving a balanced gender composition. Furthermore, we want employees with diverse professional expertise, life experience and perspectives.
If there are qualified applicants with disabilities, employment gaps or immigrant background, we will invite at least one applicant from each of these categories to an interview.
Contact information
Coen Campsteijn: coen.campsteijn@medisin.uio.no
About the University of Oslo
The University of Oslo is Norway’s oldest and highest ranked educational and research institution, with 28 000 students and 7000 employees. With its broad range of academic disciplines and internationally recognised research communities, UiO is an important contributor to society.
The Institute of Basic Medical Sciences overall objective is to promote basic medical knowledge in order to understand normal processes, provide insight into mechanisms that cause illness, and promote good health. The Institute is responsible for teaching in basic medical sciences for the programmes of professional study in medicine and the Master’s programme in clinical nutrition. The Institute has more than 300 employees and is located in Domus Medica.