PhD Student in Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism

The Department of Medical Sciences is a large clinical institution with approximately 250 employees and over 900 affiliated individuals through the Academic Hospital.

The department has a broad research profile with strong research groups in various areas. Research takes place in close connection to the clinical activities at the Academic Hospital and includes both fundamental studies on disease causes and the development and evaluation of improved diagnostics and new treatment methods. More about the department's activities can be found at https://www.uu.se/institution/medicinska-vetenskaper/ (https://www.uu.se/institution/medicinska-vetenskaper/)

Project Description:

The Unit for Clinical Diabetology and Metabolism conducts both clinical and experimental research projects focused on type 2 diabetes and obesity. We have well-developed interdisciplinary collaborations locally and nationally/internationally (e.g., SSF center and EU Horizon program).

Type 2 diabetes is an increasing public health problem worldwide. The disease is characterized by disrupted insulin production combined with insulin resistance. Obesity plays an important role in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and the metabolic syndrome. In addition to storing energy, adipose tissue also functions as an endocrine organ and communicates with other organs, not least the brain.

The overall goal of this project is to identify new mechanisms in the interaction between the brain and peripheral tissues, particularly adipose tissue and the gastrointestinal tract, that may contribute to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

We use various methods:

• Imaging of the brain and other organs in humans in vivo, during hormonal/metabolic tests
• Investigations of dynamic regulation of various hormonal systems in the development of type 2 diabetes
• Experimental studies of metabolism and other functions in human adipose tissue. These include cellular signaling, pharmacology, and omics methods.

We will perform functional analyses of tissue samples regarding, among other things, innervation, neurotransmitters, cell differentiation, glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin signaling, and the expression of relevant genes that are significant for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Clinical investigations with hormone challenges are conducted on patients and healthy individuals, often with simultaneous imaging of activity in the brain and other organs. These studies are expected to lead to new methods for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Responsibilities

The main task for a PhD student is to engage in research projects and doctoral education courses (30 credits). You will collect, analyze, compile, and present results from blood and tissue samples and clinical investigations. Participation in experimental laboratory work and in clinical studies of metabolism and hormones. The tasks may also include teaching and some institutional work, but no more than 20% of the working time.

Qualifications

Eligible for doctoral education in this field is someone who has:

• A degree at advanced level in medical science, biomedicine, or similar
• Completed at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits at advanced level including an independent project of at least 15 higher education credits, or
• Acquired largely equivalent knowledge in another documented way

Applicants must also have:

• Good ability to collaborate but also to work independently
• Good analytical skills, self-motivation, and flexibility
• Excellent skills in English, both spoken and written

Meritorious

Experience with cell biological methods and imaging methods in vitro and/or in vivo. Advanced studies in metabolic/endocrine diseases. Experience in experimental/translational research in energy metabolism, particularly hormonal regulation at the cellular and tissue level. We place great emphasis on personal qualities such as precision and responsibility as well as good communication and organizational skills.

Regulations for doctoral students can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§ 1-7 and in the university's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/ (http://regler.uu.se/).

About the Employment

The employment is temporary, according to HF Chapter 5 § 7. The extent is full-time. Start date by agreement. Place of employment: Uppsala.

For inquiries about the position, please contact: Prof Jan Eriksson, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or PhD Susanne Hetty, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Welcome with your application by March 2, 2026, UFV-PA 2026/462.

Uppsala University is a broad research university with a strong international position. The ultimate goal is to conduct education and research of the highest quality and relevance to make a difference in society. Our most important asset is all 7,600 employees and 53,000 students who, with curiosity and commitment, make Uppsala University one of the country's most exciting workplaces.

Read more about our benefits and what it's like to work at Uppsala University https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/ (https://uu.se/om-uu/jobba-hos-oss/)

The employment may be subject to security clearance. A prerequisite for employment in the case of security clearance is that the applicant is approved.

We kindly decline offers of recruitment and advertising assistance.

Applications are received in Uppsala University's recruitment system.

Union representatives: Saco-S - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), Seko - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), ST (OFR/S) - [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])