Driven by a long-standing fascination for how cells acquire identity
Amanda Andersson Rolf is a stem cell and organoid researcher and Assistant Professor at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm. She is based at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, where she started her role in early 2026. With a research journey spanning Cambridge, Vienna and Utrecht, she has built deep expertise in organoids, genome engineering and cell identity.

Her work includes establishing a human pancreatic organoid model — creating advanced “mini-organs” that model human biology. Driven by a long-standing fascination for how cells acquire identity, she aims to better understand development and disease.
Why did you choose KI?
"After more than a decade abroad, I had not planned to return to Sweden. However, the international and collaborative environment at Karolinska Institutet quickly changed my mind. I could clearly see how my research programme would integrate with the strong technological and biological expertise already in place."
What makes KI an attractive place for you as a researcher?
"KI offers state-of-the-art core facilities and an excellent international, diverse and inclusive scientific environment with close links to clinical practice. Its size enables interdisciplinary collaboration, supported by strong infrastructure, biobanks and efficient ethical processes, creating excellent conditions for impactful research."
How did you experience the recruitment process at KI?
"The recruitment process at KI was very professional and well-structured. I was guided throughout the day, which made logistics seamless and allowed me to focus on scientific discussions. I also had the chance to tailor visits and meetings to my research interests."
What do you hope to contribute during your time as an Assistant Professor at KI?
"I wish to bring new perspectives from my international experience, along with advanced organoid technology. By combining human organoids, spatial omics and modelling, I hope to build collaborations and drive progress in organoid technology, stem cell biology and regenerative research."
Personal facts
Name: Amanda Andersson Rolf
Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics
Research area: Organoids, stem cells, cell identity,
Starting date as Assistant Professor: 1 January 2026
Previous workplace(s): SciLifeLab (Sweden), Cambridge University (UK), IMBA (Austria), Hubrecht Institute, (Netherlands)
