Thesis work, 30 credits - Histological Signatures of AKI-to-CKD Transition

Explore how kidneys progress from acute injury (AKI) to chronic disease (CKD) by mapping maladaptive repair, inflammation, cell death, and fibrosis in established animal models. You will identify histological biomarkers and pathways that may guide targeted therapies and improve patient outcomes. 

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:

As a master’s student, you will investigate histological changes underlying the AKI to CKD transition, with emphasis on cell death, inflammatory, and profibrotic processes. The project involves analyzing kidney tissue across defined injury and recovery timepoints from established animal models, performing tissue processing and single/multiplex immunolabelling (IHC/IF), and acquiring advanced imaging using whole-slide scanning and fluorescence/confocal microscopy. You will quantify markers of maladaptive repair, inflammation, fibrosis, and cell death, assess their spatial distribution and co-localization. The work includes integrating findings into pathophysiological frameworks and delivering a thesis report with figures, method SOPs, and a dataset of validated histological markers, with opportunities to contribute to internal presentations and potential publications. 

You will be joining the Biosciences Technology Imaging Team, which plays a crucial role in providing essential histology data for the Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolism (CVRM) disease areas. Our imaging group is at the scientific forefront, utilizing the latest advancements in histology, cutting-edge imaging techniques, and sophisticated image analyses. 

Structure: 

• Duration: Spring term 2026 
• Credits: 30 

Essential Requirements: 

• Enrolled in a Master's program in biomedical sciences, molecular medicine, pathology, or related fields. 
• Well-organized and focused mindset. 
• Strong Problem-solving skills. 
• Strong oral and written communication skills. 
• Desire to learn and try new things. 

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 23rd of November 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

10-nov.-2025

Closing Date

23-nov.-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.