Supervisor Carl Johan Sundberg gets motivated of a doctoral student's journey to become a researcher

Carl Johan Sundberg is a certified doctor, Professor of Molecular and Applied Exercise Physiology, Head of the Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics (LIME), Karolinska Institutet. He has extensive experience in supervising doctoral students and ensures that the students develop into independent researchers.

Name: Carl Johan Sundberg
Title: Professor of Molecular and Applied Occupational Physiology at the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Head of the Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics.
Motto: Let your desire and curiosity run.
Inspired by: People with curiosity and integrity.

Carl Johan Sundberg, MD, Ph.D., head of the Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics and professor of molecular and applied exercise physiology. Photo: Martin Stenmark

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

I am a doctor and professor of molecular and applied occupational physiology at the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology. We research what actually happens in the body when we exercise and how it contributes to increased health and improved physical function. I am also head of the Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics (LIME).

What does it mean to be a supervisor?

The supervisor's task is to help doctoral students to develop into independent researchers. It is a great responsibility and extremely stimulating.

What do you think is the best thing about being a supervisor?

To be involved and contribute to developing a person into a researcher. It is a joint journey where we both learn something new along the way.

What qualities do you see as important for a doctoral student?

A deep-rooted interest in science, perseverance, patience, creativity, and critical and analytical thinking. It is also good to be communicative and have a good linguistic ability.

Do you have any tips for students who are considering doctoral studies?

Talk to many research groups, doctoral students, and supervisors.

Emma Karlsson
28-09-2023