Research Assistant in Genetic Modification of NK cells

Do you want to contribute to improving human health?

We are looking for a research assistant to join our team Genetic Modification of NK cells for Optimized Functions against Cancer for a six-month position, with the possibility of extension. 

The team Genetic Modification of NK cells for Optimized Functions against Cancer within the Cell&Gene Therapy group  is part of the Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) at Department of Medicine, Huddinge and the Competence Center for next-generation NK cell-based therapies. The Department of Medicine at Huddinge comprises five units, six core facilities and, around 80 independent research groups. The Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) is a research unit within the Department of Medicine Huddinge which brings together basic and clinical research competences to pursue cutting-edge research improving the understanding of mechanisms involved in normal and malignant hematopoiesis.

Your mission

The role involves hands-on work with techniques such as CRISPR, lentiviral vectors, flow cytometry, primary cell culture, and molecular biology assays, focusing on NK cell therapies. This position may suit candidates with a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology or Immunology who are interested in gaining further experience in a collaborative research environment. You will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced researchers and contribute to ongoing projects in our laboratory.

The main duties of the research assistant include isolation of primary cells, cell culture and generation and functional testing of gene-edited cell lines and primary cells. The research assistant will be expected to perform molecular biology assays such as PCR, assist in production of lentiviral vectors, transduction of cells and functional assessment of engineered cells. The research assistant will also be responsible to organize and manage common lab reagents. In addition, the research assistant will be required to perform flow cytometry and live cell imaging analyses on a regular basis, as well as standard cell culture work. Participation and assistance in experiments in the lab is also expected.

 Key responsibilities

• Organize, plan, perform and analyze genetic engineering experiments and functional assays of immune cells, and keep up-to-date records
• Organize, prepare, test and optimize common lab reagents, e.g. antibodies and keep up-to-date records
• Assist and work closely with other lab members on experimental work conducted in the laboratory

Your profile

We are seeking a motivated, responsible and organized candidate with experience in genetic engineering of immune cells, flow cytometry analyses and isolation and culture of primary cells. Completed or ongoing masterprogram in molecular biology, biochemistry or equivalent, as well as previous experience in a research environment and hands-on experience with cell culture are required. Good knowledge of the English language is required. Prior knowledge in cell biology and in vitro functional assays are meriting. The applicant must be able to work flexibly and in a high-paced research environment. Applicants should have been granted a Degree of Bachelor within Molecular Biology or Genetics.

Essential requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Immunology, Molecular Biology or similar
• Good proficiency of spoken and written English
• Strong organizational skills and detail-oriented
• Flow cytometry experience (multi-colour)
• Hands-on skills in isolation and culture of primary cells, as well as standard cell culture techniques.

 Desired requirements

• Master’s degree in in Biotechnology, Immunology, Molecular Biology or similar
• Experience in immunology and developmental cell biology
• Experience in CRISPR/Cas9 or genetic engineering
• Experience in genetic engineering of immune cells, particularly with techniques such as gene editing and lentiviral vector production.

Personal suitability will be a strong selection criterion.

What do we offer?

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 also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.

Location: Flemingsberg

Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM)

Department of Medicine, Huddinge

Application

Welcome to apply at the latest 2025-06-13.

The application shall be in english and should be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system. In this recruitment, you will apply with your CV without a personal letter. Instead, you will answer some questions about why you are applying for the job in the application form. 

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

1. Arnika Wagner, Recruiting manager, [email protected]
2. Balbir Dhuper, HR-partner, [email protected]

1. Belinda Pannagel, SACO, [email protected]
2. Mari Gilljam, OFR, [email protected]
3. Peter Svensson, SACO, [email protected]