KTH Royal Institute of Technology, School of Engineering Sciences
Project description
Third-cycle subject: Applied physics
We are looking for a motivated candidate interested in smart microscopy approaches to join the Advanced Optical Bio-Imaging Laboratory (http://www.testalab.org) in Stockholm as a doctoral student.
The position focuses on the development of software for real-time image formation in super-resolution microscopy to rapidly monitor changes in dynamic samples. The project will involve theoretical work to optimally achieve image formation and close collaboration with microscope builders and users in the laboratory to implement the new tools.
The project will be conducted at the Biophysics unit of the KTH Royal Institute of Technology, located in SciLifeLab in Stockholm, a national hub for life-science excellence in Sweden with cutting-edge laboratories and a vibrant multidisciplinary environment.
Supervision: Prof. Ilaria Testa is proposed to supervise the doctoral student. Decisions are made on admission
Admission requirements
To be admitted to postgraduate education (Chapter 7, 39 § Swedish Higher Education Ordinance), the applicant must have basic eligibility in accordance with either of the following:
- passed a second cycle degree (for example a master’s degree), or
- completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which at least 60 second-cycle higher education credits, or
- acquired, in some other way within or outside the country, substantially equivalent knowledge
In addition to the above, there is also a mandatory requirement for English equivalent to English B/6.
Selection
In order to succeed as a doctoral student at KTH you need to be goal oriented and persevering in your work. During the selection process, candidates will be assessed upon their ability to:
- independently pursue his or her work
- collaborate with others,
- have a professional approach and
- analyze and work with complex issues.
- Previous experience with light microscopy imaging data and coding.
- Super-resolution microscopy image analysis
- Electronics for microscope control
- Advanced Programming experience, primarily in Python
- Awareness of diversity and equal opportunity issues, with a specific focus on gender equality
- Collaborative abilities
- Independence
- Proficiency in English, as we work in an international environment
After the qualification requirements, great emphasis will be placed on personal skills.
Target degree: Doctoral degree
Information regarding admission and employment
Only those admitted to postgraduate education may be employed as a doctoral student. The total length of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education in four years’ time. An employed doctoral student can, to a limited extent (maximum 20%), perform certain tasks within their role, e.g. training and administration. A new position as a doctoral student is for a maximum of one year, and then the employment may be renewed for a maximum of two years at a time. In the case of studies that are to be completed with a licentiate degree, the total period of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for two years.
As a doctoral student, you are entitled to a workplace with many employee benefits and monthly salary according to KTH’s Doctoral student salary agreement. Read more about Doctoral studies (PhD) | KTH | Sweden.
Union representatives
Contact information for union representatives.
Doctoral Student’s network (Students’ union on KTH Royal Institute of Technology)
Contact information for PhD chapter.
To apply for the position
Apply for the position and admission through KTH’s recruitment system. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the advertisement.
Applications must include the following elements:
- Copies of diplomas and grades from previous university studies and certificates of fulfilled language requirements (see above). Translations into English or Swedish if the original document is not issued in one of these languages.Copies of originals must be certified.
- CV including your relevant professional experience and knowledge.
- Application letter with a brief description of why you want to pursue research studies, about what your academic interests are and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals. (Maximum 2 pages long)
Applications must be received at the last closing date at midnight, CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).
Other information
For information about processing of personal data in the recruitment process.
It may be the case that a position at KTH is classified as a security-sensitive role in accordance with the Protective Security Act (2018:585). If this applies to the specific position, a security clearance will be conducted for the applicant in accordance with the same law with the applicant’s consent. In such cases, a prerequisite for employment is that the applicant is approved following the security clearance.
Join us at KTH
KTH shapes the future through education, research and innovation. As a leading international technical university, we play an active role in advancing the transition towards a sustainable society. At KTH, you have the opportunity to grow and develop in a creative and dynamic environment, with good working conditions and attractive benefits. Equality, diversity and equal opportunities are essential to quality and form an integral part of KTH’s core values as a university and public authority.
Learn more about our benefits and what it’s like to work and grow at KTH
| Type of employment | Temporary position |
|---|---|
| Contract type | Full time |
| First day of employment | According to agreement |
| Salary | Monthly salary according to KTH’s doctoral student salary agreement |
| Number of positions | 1 |
| Full-time equivalent | 100% |
| City | Stockholm |
| County | Stockholms län |
| Country | Sweden |
| Reference number | PA-2026-1576 |
| Contact | Ilaria Testa, testa@kth.se |
| Published | 07.May.2026 |
| Last application date | 06.Jun.2026 |