The adipocyte expresses over 7000 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), many uniquely expressed in fat cells. However, how these polymeric molecules function in concert with the metabolic machinery of the cell is not well understood. In our laboratory, we investigate how lncRNAs adapt the adipocyte for specialised function, specifically in the context of lipid droplet metabolism. Our investigation focuses on lncRNAs that may underline compromised metabolic flexibility and contribute to cardiometabolic disease pathogenesis.
We integrate findings from well-characterized human white adipose tissue (WAT) biopsies and large population genetics to identify lncRNAs implicated in lipid metabolism and cardiometabolic disease. The disease-associated lncRNAs are investigated in human adipocyte cell models and using CRISPRi/a gene perturbation coupled to lipidomic/metabolomics, we aim to understand the effect of the lncRNA expression on adipocyte metabolism. In addition, we use gene variant editing in human adipocytes to understand how single nucleotide polymorphisms located in lncRNA gene loci lead to alterations in lipid droplet metabolism.
Alastair Kerr Laboratory
This project will explore how lncRNAs regulate fat cell lipid storage through responding to insulin and in turn type-2 diabetes pathogenesis. The research assistant will use multi-omic datasets generated in human adipocytes to uncover novel lncRNAs that organise the insulin response. The research assistant will progress these lncRNAs into molecular studies in human adipocytes, where they will use advanced molecular gene perturbation systems and in-house developed molecular methodology to uncover how these lncRNAs function at a molecular resolution.
The research assistant will be trained in how to analyse transcriptomic/proteomic datasets and develop an investigational pipeline to understand how lncRNAs function. The research assistant will be involved in learning from current lab members and teaching future lab members that will be hired.
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A) General eligibility requirement
You meet the general eligibility requirement for the research assistant position if you have been awarded a first-cycle/bachelor’s qualification.
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B) Specific eligibility requirement
You meet the specific eligibility requirement for the research assistant position if you:
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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.
Required
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The chosen candidate will have completed a master’s/ or equivalent degree in biotechnology/biomedicine/molecular biology/medicine or another related subject.
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Experience in using molecular biology wet lab methodologies such as Western blot analyses, qRT-PCR.
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Experience of processing and analysing omics datasets including short/long-read RNA-sequencing, proteomics using R, Linux-based tools or equivalent.
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Clear communication and documentation skills to be able to explain and replicate research findings.
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An ability to work independently.
Highly Advantagous
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A good knowledge of analyzing RNA-protein interactions and RNA structural motifs
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Ability to visualize complex data using R/Python or similar programs and tools.
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
Choose to work at KI – Ten reasons why
Alastair Kerr Laboratory
KI applies individual and differentiated salary setting in accordance with our collective agreements RALS and RALS-T.
The application is to 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.
Permanent position is initiated by a six months trial period.
Anställningsform: tillsvidareanställning | Anställningens omfattning: heltid | Antal lediga befattningar: 1 | Sysselsättningsgrad: 100 | Ort: Stockholm | Län: Stockholms län | Land: Sweden | Referensnummer: STÖD 2-2476/2026 | Kontakt: Anna Heinerö , Alastair Kerr , | Facklig företrädare: Peter Svensson, SACO , Elizabeth Valenzuela, SEKO , Mari Gilljam, OFR , | Publicerat: 2026-06-04 | Sista ansökningsdag: 2026-06-25
