PhD fellowship in heart research

PhD fellowship in heart research at Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo, Norway

Join the Institute for Experimental Medical Research, one of the internationally leading teams in translational heart research. We invite applications for a 3-year PhD fellowship as part of the project SCAR-MI (Scar-dependent Arrhythmias after Myocardial Infarction). This project offers a unique opportunity to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of post-infarction ventricular arrhythmias using an advanced large-animal model.

As a PhD fellow in our group, you will work at the forefront of translational cardiac electrophysiology, integrating state-of-the-art methodologies with a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment. You will develop expertise in advanced electrophysiological techniques, cardiac imaging, and data analysis, all while contributing to research that directly informs future treatment strategies for arrhythmias.

Who we are – the Institute for Experimental Medical Research:

The position will be based at the Institute for Experimental Medical Research (IEMR), Oslo University Hospital/University of Oslo (https://iemr.no/). IEMR is a unique research environment, focused on cardiac research, from molecular to patient studies. More than 60 employees work closely together in 6 research groups and a centralized lab to “understand the heart for the benefit of patients”. Their collective expertise spans molecular biology, physiology, physics, cardiology and more. You can hear more about us in this podcast episode (in Norwegian): https://open.spotify.com/episode/0MS1Ii09PyyXun6cMyLl3B?si=QqHvHF8OSOSolU_g45GnnA.

Who we are – the research group:

The project will be part of the research group Translational Arrhythmology and Electrophysiology, where a team of medical students, PhD students and Cardiologists work closely together to understand arrhythmias and develop future treatment strategies. The group is headed by Professor Mathis Korseberg Stokke, who will be the main supervisor for the PhD student. You can read more about the group here: https://iemr.no/groups/translational-arrhythmology-and-electrophysiology/.

Arbeidsoppgaver

What you will do:

• Conduct high-impact research on the electrophysiological mechanisms of post-infarction arrhythmias using a clinically relevant large-animal model (pig)
• Gain hands-on expertise in echocardiography, ECG analysis, and invasive electrophysiology in collaboration with a skilled, multidisciplinary research team
• Lead and contribute to data analysis, manuscript writing, and international scientific presentations
• Play an active role in planning and executing experiments, ensuring high methodological rigor
• Collaborate with leading researchers in the field, both at IEMR and through international partnerships

Kvalifikasjoner (overskrift)

Who We Are Looking For:

We seek an motivated candidate with a scientific mindset and a passion for understanding cardiac arrhythmias. The ideal candidate will have:

• A Master’s degree in Medicine, Life Sciences, or a related field (Required)
• A keen interest in translational cardiac research and willingness to work with large-animal models. Previous experience with animal research is not required, but preferred. Candidates without formal training in animal handling equal to FELASA C will be required to take this course within the first year of the PhD.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with ECG analysis, echocardiography, or invasive electrophysiology (preferred but not required)
• A proactive, structured, and team-oriented approach to research
• Fluency in English (oral and written) (Required)
  

Medical doctors with a career ambition in clinical electrophysiology are especially encouraged to apply, but we also welcome applicants with other academic backgrounds who bring strong research skills and dedication.

Value will be placed on the compatibility of the applicant’s professional and personal disposition, with strengths in:

• Systematic approach
• Analysis and assessment
• Implementation
• Self-development
• Initiative and accountability

Personal characteristics

• Genuine interest in research
• Enthusiastic, reliable and structured
• Dedicated and responsible
• Team player
• Curiosity-driven

What we offer:

• A research environment with unique opportunities for translational research in a hospital setting; close collaboration with leading researchers in the field in-house and by collaboration with other research groups and clinical departments, as well as internationally
• A collaborative and ambitious international working environment with a broad range of academic backgrounds and competencies
• One-to-one practical training adapted to personality and skills already mastered, in a safe and friendly environment
• Technical and administrative in-house assistance
• Salary follows the general PhD salary guidelines at Oslo University Hospital
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement
• A part-time clinical position may be possible, subject to discussion with supervisors. However, candidates should consider the high workload associated with a PhD. Please note that such arrangements are not a part of the PhD position or arranged by IEMR.
• The unique opportunity in Oslo to combine urban life with exceptional nature and outdoor opportunities

How to apply:

Applications must be submitted via Webcruiter and must include:

1. A 1-page cover letter in English outlining:

• Your motivation for applying
• Relevant experience
• Your strengths and suitability for the position

2. A complete CV, listing education, previous positions, and other qualifying activities, including previous research if applicable
3. Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
4. A complete list of publications (if applicable)
5. Contact details of 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)

The attachments should be in the form of one or two PDF files that include all requested items.

Foreign applicants should attach an explanation of their University’s grading system if needed. All documents should be in English or a Scandinavian language.

Oslo University Hospital is a workplace with great diversity. We believe this is crucial for solving our tasks in the best possible way. We want this diversity to be reflected among the applicants for our positions, and we encourage all qualified candidates, regardless of background, to apply!

Applications will be assessed according to cover letter and the necessary and wanted qualifications. Candidates being considered will be invited for formal online testing of skills relevant to the position. After an overall assessment, candidates considered will be invited to an online or in-person interview.

The successful applicant will be expected to complete the PhD within the 3-year funding period.

We encourage applications from ambitious candidates eager to join one of the world's leading institutes in translational heart. Whether you want to use this as a steppingstone for your future work in academic medicine, clinical practice or other opportunities, your time with us will give you a perfect start to your further career!

For further information regarding the position, please contact

Mathis Korseberg Stokke, Professor, Head of Institute

m.k.stokke at medisin.uio.no
Tlf. 90 69 68 83