Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Protein and Structural Biology
The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 4000 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 19,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world’s universities.
We are now looking for a
Doctoral Researcher
who has interest in biochemistry, structural biology and early-stage drug discovery to work on a project in protein ADP-ribosylation.
The host research team also belongs to Biocenter Oulu, which offers a high-level international multidisciplinary environment supplied with cutting-edge infrastructures. Under this framework, the Health and Biosciences Doctoral Program (HBS-DP) offers doctoral training in clinical medicine, biomedicine, biochemistry, molecular medicine, dentistry, health sciences, and medical technology.
About the job
We have now an opening for a fixed-term, full-time doctoralresearcher position in a research project headed by Professor Lari Lehtiö in the Protein and Structural Biology research unit. The doctoral studies are expected to be completed in four years.
Our team focuses on structure, function and selective inhibition of ADP-ribosyltransferases, also known as PARPs. These proteins are involved in signaling through ADP-ribosylation – a post-translational modification affecting protein stability, function, and interactions in multiple cellular pathways. Our goals are to study how the multidomain PARPs function and are regulated by addressing several key questions in their oligomerization, protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid interactions and use structural information for rational design to develop specific inhibitors.
The successful candidate will work on understanding PARP activation, integrating structural and biochemical information and develop protein-protein interaction inhibitors. We use a range of biochemical, structural and biophysical methods including X-ray crystallography and CryoEM to study PARPs function. The project can be somewhat tailored on the skills and interest of the recruited researcher.
What we offer
The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of 10-15 people, with whom you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers.
Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.
Who are you?
To successfully occupy this position, you must possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent degree (e.g. licentiate) preferably in biochemistry or related fields. Degree must have been completed with good grades or strong evidence for graduation before the appointment must be demonstrated.
The position is intended for an Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) who is defined as a researcher in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of his/her research activity, including the period of research training. Applicants will be either starting their doctoral training or will have completed no more than two full years of training (adjusted for possible previous part-time status) at the time the position is filled. The selected candidate will carry out his/her doctoral studies in the HBS-DP of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS) and must meet the minimal requirements to receive doctoral study rights as defined in UniOGS requirements.
Salary
The position isfixed-term for4 years starting on 01.09.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-2900 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6months is applied to the position.
How to apply?
Interested? If yes, please apply by 5.7.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.
The application should be written in English and include the following:
The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including people of different ages, genders, languages, cultures, and minority communities.
Contact Information
If you have any further questions, please contact Professor Lari Lehtiö (lari.lehtio-at-oulu.fi).
The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is seeking to recruit Doctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology starting 1.10.2026, or as soon as possible after that for a maximum of 3,5 years. The fixed-term position is for completing doctoral studies.
Poorly functioning endothelial layers and mucosal surfaces influence susceptibility to infections and non-communicable diseases. The Doctoral Researcher will focus on preventive approaches that support health by discovering nature-based bioactive molecules and by identification of molecular mediators of health benefits of exercise and their synergistic effects. To do this, the doctoral candidate will perform experimental work with microbial and cell cultures and possibly in experimental animal models. The position is related to the University’s profiling area Ageing, Environment and Functioning, and includes collaboration between Faculty of Mathematics and Science (Prof. Lotta-Riina Sundberg) and Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences (Prof. Riikka Kivelä).
Who should apply
We expect the candidates to have:
Strong expertise in cell and molecular biology
Familiarity with microbiology, bioinformatics and/or physiology
Understanding of metabolism or cardiovascular diseases is preferable but not essential
Independence and problem-solving skills. The project allows flexibility for developing original ideas and subprojects
Ability and motivation to work as part of a team
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master’s degree. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science.
Benefits
Come to Jyväskylä, Finland, and join our vibrant and inspiring community!
At the University of Jyväskylä, you will be a valued member of our community with a unique opportunity to contribute to international research. You will become part of our international and multidisciplinary community that prioritizes the wellbeing of each individual. Our lively campus provides excellent opportunities for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland, named the world’s happiest country for consecutive years since 2018, offers a high standard of living with free education (also in English), affordable childcare, generous family benefits, and comprehensive healthcare. Work–life balance is highly valued in Finland, and employees enjoy four to six weeks of annual holiday. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland, just three hours by train from the capital Helsinki. Part of the Finnish Lakeland, the city offers easy access to nature and a range of outdoor, sports and exercise activities. As a major centre of education with a large student population, it also features a vibrant cultural scene. For more information about the University of Jyväskylä, the city of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University’s International Staff Guide.
Salaries are based on job demands and employees’ performance following the Finnish University Salary System. The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2550 €/month (gross income). A holiday bonus is paid to all employees. With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers. If you are relocating from abroad, we will support your move to Jyväskylä and Finland.
How to apply?
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
A short motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including your research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
Degree certificate (highest degree).
We look forward to receiving your application in our recruitment system by August 9, 2026.
For further information, please contact Professor Lotta-Riina Sundberg, lotta-riina.sundberg@jyu.fi or Professor Riikka Kivelä, riikka.m.kivela@jyu.fi.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
Department of Biological and Environmental Science
The research in the Department of Biological and Environmental Science focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is an integral part of the University of Jyväskylä’s Ylistönrinne Mathematics and Science Research Complex, which includes buildings of chemistry, physics and nanoscience. Ambiotica houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centred environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for us all. It is essential that each member of the community thrives and has opportunities to develop and grow. We cherish openness of thinking as well as the balance between research and education. Our naturally beautiful campus is located at the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. on maailman johtava tiedeyhteisön palveluiden tarjoaja, jonka vuosittainen liikevaihto on noin 40 miljardia dollaria. Missiomme on mahdollistaa asiakkaillemme terveellisempi, puhtaampi ja turvallisempi maailma. Lisätietoja löydät osoitteesta www.thermofisher.com.
Thermo Fisher Scientific ilmoitti hiljattain solmineensa sopimuksen mikrobiologialiiketoimintansa myynnistä Astorgille, joka on johtava eurooppalainen pääomasijoitusyhtiö ja jolla on vahva asiantuntemus terveydenhuollon alalla. Astorg keskittyy valikoituihin toimialoihin, kuten lääkepalveluihin ja -teknologiaan, terveysteknologiaan sekä life science – ja diagnostiikkaratkaisuihin.
Päätös perustuu huolelliseen arviointiin osana Thermo Fisherin jatkuvaa strategiaa kehittää ja vahvistaa liiketoimintaportfoliotaan aktiivisesti.
Yrityskaupan odotetaan toteutuvan vuoden 2026 jälkipuoliskolla viranomaislupien ja muiden tavanomaisten ehtojen täytyttyä. Siihen saakka Thermo Fisher Scientific jatkaa liiketoiminnan operointia normaalisti.
Mikäli liityt mikrobiologialiiketoimintaan ennen yrityskaupan toteutumista, työsuhteesi odotetaan siirtyvän Astorgille yrityskaupan yhteydessä.
Toimipisteemme Suomessa sijaitsevat Vantaalla ja Joensuussa, ja työllistämme yli 800 ammattilaista tutkimus- ja kehitystoiminnan, tuotannon, toimitusketjun, laadun, markkinoinnin, myynnin ja hallinnon tehtävissä. Rekrytoimme asiantuntijoita monilta eri aloilta, kuten tekniikan, kemian ja mikrobiologian parista.
Vantaan toimipisteellämme kehitetään laboratorioautomaation ratkaisuja, kliinisen ja teollisen kemian analysaattoreita ja testejä, elintarviketurvallisuuden testiratkaisuja sekä muita diagnostiikka- ja tutkimusratkaisuja.
Miten pääset työssäsi vaikuttamaan?
Etsimme ennakoivaa, oma-aloitteista ja tavoitteellista tiimipelaajaa R&D-Laboratorioteknikon tehtävään. Viihdyt korkean teknologian tuotteiden parissa ja pystyt edistämään useita projekteja samanaikaisesti. Haluat kehittää sekä omaa osaamistasi että työskentelytapoja jatkuvasti. Haemme ihmistä, joka on kiinnostunut huolehtimaan siitä, että R&D-laboratoriomme tarjoaa tutkijoillemme sujuvasti toimivan työympäristön.
Tarjoamme motivoivia ja monipuolisia tehtäviä innovatiivisessa ja kansainvälisessä työympäristössä. Tässä roolissa työskentelet osana ruokaturvallisuuden R&D -tiimiä.
Mitä tulet tekemään?
Toimit osana Molecular Food Protection R&D -tiimiä, joka vastaa uusien molekyylidiagnostisten tuotteiden suunnittelusta ja kehittämisestä täydentämään nykyistä mikrobiologisten tuotteiden valikoimaa.
Työtehtäviisi kuuluvat muun muassa:
Tuotekehitystehtävät molekyyli- ja mikrobiologisten menetelmien parissa
Näytteenkäsittely, reaaliaikaiset PCR-kokeet sekä tulosten analysointi
Laboratorioiden ja laitteiden ylläpito sekä kalibroinnin varmistaminen
Laboratoriotilojen organisointi ja toiminnan sujuvuudesta huolehtiminen
Virallisten laboratoriotietojen dokumentointi ja tulosten raportointi R&D-tiimille
Projektien toteuttaminen sovittujen suunnitelmien ja aikataulujen mukaisesti
Oman työn suunnittelu yhteistyössä Senior R&D Scientistin kanssa
Materiaalien tilaaminen sekä yhteistyö ulkoisten toimittajien ja huoltotahojen kanssa.
Tehtävä tarjoaa mahdollisuuden työskennellä edistyksellisen teknologian parissa sekä osallistua uusien molekyylidiagnostisten tuotteiden kehittämiseen ja valmistukseen.
Mitä sinulta odotetaan?
Soveltuvaa laboratorioalan, bioteknologian tai muun luonnontieteellisen alan koulutusta (esim. mikrobiologia, biokemia tai molekyylibiologia)
Vähintään 3 vuoden kokemusta laboratoriotyöstä bioteknologian tai tutkimuslaboratorioiden parissa
Vahvaa osaamista molekyylibiologisista menetelmistä, erityisesti reaaliaikaisesta PCR:stä
Hyvää mikrobiologisten menetelmien tuntemusta sekä kokemusta laboratorioympäristöissä työskentelystä
Kykyä hallita useita projekteja samanaikaisesti sekä toimia suunnitelmallisesti muuttuvassa ympäristössä
Hyviä yhteistyö-, organisointi- ja ongelmanratkaisutaitoja sekä oma-aloitteista työskentelyotetta
Sujuvaa suomen ja englannin kielen taitoa sekä hyviä tietoteknisiä valmiuksia.
Katsomme eduksi kokemuksen BSL2- ja BSL3-laboratorioista sekä laboratorion päivittäisen toiminnan koordinoinnista.
Mielenkiintoisen ja monipuolisen tehtävän lisäksi tarjoamme sinulle:
Palkitsemista useilla eri tavoilla aina tulospalkkiosta työkaverin tunnustamiseen
Kattavat työterveyshuollon palvelut
Lounas- ja virkistysetuja
Harrastuskerhoja ja mahdollisuuden osallistua hyväntekeväisyystoimintaamme
Marja Mikkola’s research group at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki invites applications for the position of a
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER
to work in the Epithelial Morphogenesis group, starting as soon as possible. The employment is fixed term of 2 years with a possible extension.
The position
A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the Epithelial Morphogenesis group led by Dr. Marja Mikkola at the Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/epithelial-morphogenesis). We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to join our team. We use a wide range of molecular, cellular, transcriptomic, and advanced imaging techniques, in combination with ex vivo and in vivo manipulation of developing mouse organs.
The project will focus on how signaling pathways operate at the intersection of growth control and branching morphogenesis in the developing mammary gland and can be tuned according to the interests and skills of the applicant. The project will use mouse mutants and may use techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and live confocal whole-mount imaging. The position is also suitable for an applicant who wishes to build their independent career after the post-doc period. We offer an international, inspiring, and supportive research environment and excellent research facilities with access to the state-of-the art technologies.
Qualifications
We invite applications from candidates with a solid theoretical and wet-lab background and a PhD degree in cell/molecular biology, developmental biology, genetics, biomedicine, or another appropriate field. Previous experience in confocal imaging and image analysis, scRNA-seq data analysis, or genetically engineered mouse models is considered advantageous. A problem-solving mindset, excellent written and oral skills in English, and the ability to work productively both independently and as part of a team are a necessity. A willingness to supervise students and staff is expected. The position may include one to two short (2-4 weeks) visits to a collaborator’s lab in Europe.
The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.
What we offer
The position is for a fixed term of 2 years, available as soon as possible, with the possibility of extension until August 31, 2029. A six-month trial period will be applied.
The salary will be based on level 5 of the University salary system for teaching and research personnel and includes a component based on personal performance. Standard Finnish pension benefits, occupational health care, and opportunities for professional development are provided for university employees: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.
The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, insurance for work-related travel and occupational accidents, sports services at a reduced price, and opportunities for professional development.
The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.
Applications are to be sent by June 7, 2026, using the University’s recruitment system via the button ”Apply now”. Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications by using the Employee Login button.
Please submit your application, which includes the following documents in English:
– Cover letter (max 1 page) describing your scientific background and expertise, motivation for the position. – CV (max 3 pages) including a list of publications, and the names and contact information (e-mail, telephone number, relation to the applicant) of at least two references who have agreed to provide a written statement on behalf of the applicant. – Copy of your Doctoral diploma.
Note that applications will be reviewed already during the application period, and the position may be filled before the application deadline if a suitable candidate is identified.
Contact details
For further inquiries regarding the project and the position, please contact Marja Mikkola, Research director: marja.mikkola@helsinki.fi.
Lan Q, Trela E, Lindström R, Satta JP, Kaczyńska B, Christensen MM, Holzenberger M, Jernvall J, Mikkola ML. Mesenchyme instructs growth while epithelium directs branching in the mouse mammary gland. Elife 13:e93326, 2024.
Satta JP, Lindström R, Myllymäki SM, Lan Q, Trela E, Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen R, Kaczyńska B, Voutilainen M, Kuure S, Vainio SJ, Mikkola ML. Exploring the principles of embryonic mammary gland branching morphogenesis. Development 151:dev202179, 2024.
Myllymäki SM, Kaczyńska B, Lan Q, Mikkola ML. Spatially coordinated cell cycle activity and motility govern bifurcation of mammary branches. J Cell Biol 222:e202209005, 2023.
Sulic AM, Das Roy R, Papagno V, Lan Q, Saikkonen R, Jernvall J, Thesleff I, Mikkola ML. Transcriptomic landscape of early hair follicle and epidermal development. Cell Rep 42:112643, 2023.
Diversity clause
A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.
JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER! #HelsinkiUniCareers
About us
University of Helsinki is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE is an independent research institute that supports high-quality life science research across university campuses and faculties. The Institute of Biotechnology (BI), a part of HiLIFE, is an internationally renowned research institute with an inclusive and curiosity-driven working culture. The research activities are carried out in research groups joined into three multidisciplinary research programs. The Institute hosts several shared research infrastructures, including cutting-edge facilities for light microscopy, sequencing, and proteomics. For more information, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/hilife/bi
Lab Manager/Research Technician position in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology
Najumudeen Lab, University of Helsinki, Finland
The Najumudeen Lab is seeking a highly motivated Lab Manager / Research Technician to join our collaborative and international research team at the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), University of Helsinki. The lab is also affiliated with the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE).
Our research focuses on intestinal stem cells, metabolism, cancer biology, and integrative multi-omics approaches, including spatial omics, transcriptomics, epigenetics, single-cell workflows, and preclinical cancer models.
This position is ideal for a person who combines strong hands-on experience in mouse work with excellent organizational skills and enjoys keeping a research laboratory running smoothly. The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting research projects, coordinating daily lab operations, and contributing intellectually to an active research environment.
Key responsibilities
The successful candidate will: 1. Coordinate day-to-day lab operations, documentation, shared protocols, and general laboratory organization. 2. Support research projects of lab members, with a strong drive to contribute intellectually. Tasks will include mouse genotyping, mouse management, mouse monitoring, and communication with mouse facility staff. The candidate is expected to understand the experimental design and the underlying reasons for performing each experiment. 3. Assist with sample logistics for single-cell and multi-omics workflows. 4. Maintain lab safety documentation, SOPs, equipment records, and onboarding materials for new lab members. 5. Support administrative tasks for the group leader, including research meetings, purchasing, invoice processing, and financial documentation. 6. Actively contribute to research discussions, including lab meetings, journal clubs, and project discussions.
Candidate requirements
– MSc or PhD, preferably, in a relevant field, such as translational medicine, biomedicine, biochemistry, biotechnology, genetics, molecular biology, or a related discipline. – Extensive experience in experimental mouse work is required. Existing authorisation to work with mice is required; candidates must be eligible and willing to obtain the required authorisation in Finland. Please do not apply if this requirement is not applicable. – Hands-on experience in experimental laboratory work, particularly preclinical mouse models, with a careful working style. – Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. – Ability to learn quickly and adapt to changing tasks. – Capability to work both independently and as part of a team. – Fluency in English, written and spoken; Finnish is an advantage but not required.
Merits
Experience in one or more of the following areas is considered an advantage: – Preclinical cancer models – Primary stem cell and organoid models – Metabolism assays – Spatial omics methods – Single-cell workflows – Lab management, safety documentation or purchasing – Onboarding or training of new lab members
What we offer
– A friendly, international, and multidisciplinary research environment – A central role in keeping an ambitious research lab organized, compliant, and productive – Access to high-quality research infrastructure at the University of Helsinki, FIMM, and HiLIFE – Opportunities for training and professional development – A workplace in Helsinki, Finland, with excellent quality of life, strong public services, and close access to nature
Salary and contract
The position is offered for a fixed term of two years, starting in August 2026 or as negotiated. Salary will depend on the applicant’s level of skills, knowledge, and abilities and is based on the university salary system. A trial period of 6 months will be applied. The typical starting gross salary for comparable UH laboratory manager roles is approximately €2,600-€3,200/month (depending on duties and experience).
Interested?
Applications should include the following documents: 1. Cover letter, max. 1 page 2. CV, max. 4 pages 3. Full publication list, if applicable 4. Names of three references Please submit your application through the University of Helsinki recruitment system. We value authentic applications that reflect the applicant’s own experience, motivation, and voice.
University of Helsinki is seeking a Project Planner to support an international biomedical research team at the Meilahti Campus. The position starts in June 2026 (or as agreed) and is initially funded for 12 months, with the possibility of extension.
The Project Planner will work closely with the Principal Investigator to support grant applications, research administration, project coordination, and laboratory management. Key responsibilities include coordinating grant proposals and reporting, organizing project meetings, monitoring milestones and deliverables, supporting ethics applications and regulatory compliance, coordinating collaborations with clinicians, biobanks, and core facilities, and assisting with scientific publication processes. The role also contributes to improving laboratory operations, documentation systems, onboarding practices, and research reproducibility.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Systems Biology, Immunology, Metabolism, RNA Biology, or a related field. Experience in research project administration, grant preparation, or research support roles is required. Strong scientific writing, communication, organizational, and networking skills are essential, along with excellent English proficiency.
The salary is approximately €3,900/month, and the position offers an opportunity to contribute to internationally collaborative biomedical research projects.
University of Turku is seeking a Doctoral Researcher to join Professor Jukka Westermarck’s laboratory at the Turku Bioscience Centre. The PhD project focuses on the role of the PP2A inhibitor protein CIP2A and its splice variant NOCIVA in cancer biology, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
The research aims to uncover how NOCIVA splicing is regulated in cancer and evaluate its potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target. The project combines molecular cancer biology, functional studies, and clinically relevant translational research in a highly international environment with strong cancer research infrastructure.
Applicants must hold an MSc degree and have documented experience in experimental cancer research using cell-based models. Preferred expertise includes CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, viral gene transfer, bioinformatics, and gene regulation mechanisms. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential.
The position starts in August 2026, with funding secured until April 2030. Salary is approximately €2500–2600/month initially, according to the Finnish university salary system.
The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 4000 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.
We are now looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher
to join us in the Research Unit for Population Health, a multidisciplinary research unit at the Faculty of Medicine. The postdoctoral position is set within Health Dimensions Theme 1, Multidimensional Mapping of Disease. Health Dimensions is a multidisciplinary research initiative funded by the Research Council of Finland. The research programme brings together researchers an groups exploring the complex, multidimensional nature of human health, with the aim to prevent chronic diseases and multimorbidity through a new level of understanding and acting on these dimensions – lifelong molecular, physiological, environmental, behavioural and societal mechanisms.
About the job
The postdoctoral researcher will join a multidisciplinary research group with expertise in genetic epidemiology, biostatistics, gerontology, clinical medicine, and life‑course health research. Our team investigates the biological (genetics and other omics) determinants of aging, with a particular focus on healthspan, frailty, and age‑related multimorbidity.
In this position, you will work with large-scale genomic, biomarker, and nationwide register data from Finland and other Nordic countries to uncover genetic and molecular mechanisms that shape aging trajectories. The project aims to analyze omics data (e.g., genomics, epigenomics, metabolomics, and proteomics) with Mendelian randomization and machine learning methods with longitudinal health and healthcare information to identify pathways influencing vulnerability, resilience, and health decline across the life course.
Key focus areas
Investigating genetic and molecular determinants of frailty, healthspan, and age‑related diseases
Applying advanced statistical, bioinformatic, and machine learning methods to multi‑omics and population‑level data
Characterizing biological pathways and risk profiles that contribute to heterogeneity in aging and vulnerability
Key duties and responsibilities
Conducting advanced statistical and computational analyses in large and complex datasets
Leading and contributing to scientific manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals
Presenting research findings at scientific meetings and conferences
Collaborating closely with research group members and external partners in data analysis, interpretation, and dissemination
Contributing to the preparation of research funding applications
What we offer
The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team, with whom you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
Development and career options of the big organization.
We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers.
Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.
Who are you?
We welcome applications from highly motivated candidates with a proven track record of independent research and a strong interest in genetic epidemiology, omics research, and/or bioinformatics as well as a keen interest into health in aging/biological aging.
We expect you to demonstrate the following:
A doctoral degree in a suitable field (e.g. genetic epidemiology, bioinformatics, statistics, data science, or other quantitative field)
A strong interest in the biological determinants of health in aging/biological aging
Solid analytical skills using statistical or programming software (e.g. R, Stata and/or Python)
Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English
A track record of scientific publications
Experience of presenting your work to colleagues and stakeholders
Ability to take initiative, organise your work and complete tasks to an agreed timetable
Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, with senior and junior colleagues
We also appreciate:
Excellent written and spoken Finnish
Experience in causal inference (e.g. Mendelian randomization) and machine learning methods
Experience of, or interest in, teaching and/or supervision in a higher education setting
Salary
The position is fixed-term for 1 year as of 01.09.2026 or as agreed.
The salary will be based on the levels 5-6 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3700-4200 € per month (before taxes).
A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.
How to apply?
Interested? If yes, please apply by 15.05.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.
The application should be written in English and include the following:
Human Brown Fat Research Group (located in Turku, Turku PET Centre) is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher for a fixed term position, starting 1 August 2026, ending 31 Januray 2028.
Job description
Your responsibility is the following: to implement and conduct a clinical exercise trial and conduct O-15 O2 and O-15 H2O measurements for brown fat and skeletal muscle perfusion and oxygen consumption (if available) using PET-CT imaging. Other measurements, including OGTT, fitness tests, continuous glucose monitoring, energy expenditure, etc., will be included. Other responsibilities include data analysis and reporting, scientific publishing, participation in supervision and research group activities, grant applications as well as national and international collaboration.
Who we are looking for
The candidate should hold a PhD degree. We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in Exercise Physiology and prior experience conducting clinical exercise trials. Experience with imaging methods -particularly PET-CT and MRI- is required.
The position involves designing, conducting, and analysing measurements using a PET/CT system. Candidates should preferably be able to demonstrate previous expertise in these areas, for example through relevant publications.
In addition, the role will involve working with omics data derived from skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Experience in this field, particularly when combined with PET-CT image analysis, will be highly valued. Knowledge and experience related to obesity physiology are also considered an advantage.
Essential skills include excellent written and spoken English and Finnish, strong communication abilities, the capacity to conduct independent research and contribute to scientific publishing, as well as effective teamwork skills.
We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.
Apply between 23 April 2026 and 8 May 2026 16:00 (Europe/Helsinki)
Benefits
We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.
Possibilities to develop your expertise – We encourage our personnel to develop their professional expertise by offering versatile training and competence development possibilities which employees can take advantage of during their working hours. Also, the course offering of Open University is free of charge for our personnel.
Your well-being is important to us! – In addition to comprehensive occupational health care, our own well-being services monitor, support and develop the well-being of our personnel. You are entitled to use the CampusSport’s services at a personnel price.
We support your work-life balance – Flexible working hours and extensive remote work options help you balance work and leisure time.
An inspiring and supportive work community – We encourage each other and value working together!
Please read more about University of Turku as an employer from our Come work with us! pages.
The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University’s commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers.
The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:
The University of Turku is among the top of the world’s universities in most rankings and among the best universities in the world in certain fields. Our high-quality basic research, a multidisciplinary research profile and close cooperation in research infrastructures creates the basis for international top research. Read more about University of Turku in international university rankings.
Salary is determined in accordance with levels OV05-OV06, the Finnish Universities Salary System for Research and Teaching Personnel. The task-specific salary is 3 293,89 – 3 841,13 EUR per month. In addition to task-specific salary, personal performance based salary is paid.
The position has a trial period of six months.
How to apply
Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 8.5.2026 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki).
Please write your application and accompanying documents in English.
Applicants should enclose with their application:
cover letter including a short description of applicant’s relevant skills and the motivation for this post
CV
Complete list of publications (if applicable)
degree certificate(s)
letter of recommendation from a previous supervisor with contact information
Please ensure that you submit all requested attachments.
Further information
For further information about the position, please contact: Docent Francisco M. Acosta (facman@utu.fi)
With questions about the application process, please contact: HR Specialist Mirjami Jaakkola (mirjami.a.jaakkola@utu.fi). Postdoctoral Researcher
