Thesis work, 30 credits - Investigating Proteostasis in an Animal Model of Parkinson’s Disease

Are you passionate about neuroscience and keen to contribute to the search for new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases? Do you want to deepen your expertise in experimental techniques and learn more about protein regulation in the brain? We are looking for a driven and curious student to join our research on Parkinson’s disease—a condition affecting millions worldwide. 

About AstraZeneca: 

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centered biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercializing prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work and empowering employees to push the boundaries of science and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.  

About the Opportunity:

As a Thesis Worker at AstraZeneca, you’ll find an environment that’s full of unique opportunities and exciting challenges. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your areas of interest whilst equally developing a broad skillset and knowledge base to get the best out of your experience. You’ll be working on meaningful projects to make an impact and deliver real value for our patients and our business.   

Thesis work description:   

In this master’s project, you will investigate the role of proteostasis, the cellular regulation of protein balance, in an established animal model of Parkinson’s disease. Disruption of proteostasis can lead to the accumulation of misfolded proteins, which plays a central role in the development and progression of neurodegeneration. In Parkinson’s, the aggregation of alpha-synuclein and the loss of dopaminergic neurons are key pathological features. 

You will contribute to the further characterization of our mouse model by assessing proteasomal activity and protein aggregation in multiple brain regions. Your main methodological tool will be immunohistochemistry. The knowledge gained may provide insights into how proteostasis mechanisms influence disease progression and help guide future therapeutic strategies. 

If you are motivated by experimental neuroscience, have a solid background in molecular biology or biomedicine, and are eager to learn advanced laboratory techniques, this is a unique opportunity to make an impact in the field. 

Structure:

• Assignment start: January 2026 
• Credits: 30 (can be extended to 40 credits if desired) 

Essential Requirements:

• Ongoing master’s studies in relevant discipline 
• Previous practical experience in molecular biology 
• Skills in histology and cryotomy are a plus 
• Scientific curiosity, good communication and documentation skills are critical 

So, what’s next?  

Apply today and take the chance to be part of making a difference, making connections, and gaining the tools and experience to open doors and fulfil your potential. We can´t wait to hear from you!  

We welcome your application as soon as possible, but ahead of the scheduled closing date 26th of October 2025. In the event that we identify suitable candidates ahead of the scheduled closing date, we reserve the right to withdraw the vacancy earlier than published.  

Date Posted

14-okt.-2025

Closing Date

26-okt.-2025

Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.