Doctoral Researcher/Project Researcher, Neurosciences, Joensuu
14.8.2025The Faculty of Health Sciences, A.I. Virtanen Institute
https://uef.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:840824/type:job/where:123/apply:1
We invite applications for a Doctoral Researcher or Project Researcher position at the A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, Kuopio Campus, University of Eastern Finland. The position is fixed-term for three years starting 1 October 2025 (or as agreed).
Role and Salary
We are seeking a motivated Doctoral Researcher/Project Researcher to join research on how environmental stress and genetic risk factors affect human brain cell function. Using human stem cell–derived brain cells and CRISPR editing, the research investigates cellular and molecular changes underlying psychiatric conditions, particularly glia-synapse communication. The Doctoral Researcher will conduct their research in line with the approved plan, aiming to complete a doctoral degree within four years.
The position is fixed-term due to the candidate’s doctoral research (Doctoral Researcher) or a specific project task (Project Researcher). The salary follows Finnish university regulations.
Main Responsibilities
- Optimize and perform in vitro human iPSC cultures and differentiate into brain cells relevant for psychiatric disorders.
- CRISPR editing of iPSCs for genome editing and live imaging of synaptic structures and glial dynamics.
- Design and execute experiments, including live imaging and transcriptomics.
- Analyse experimental data and integrate results.
We Offer
- Fully funded 3-year PhD position, including salary and research expenses.
- Mentoring and guidance from the PI and team.
- Collaborative, international, interdisciplinary research environment.
- Opportunities for international collaboration, mobility, and conferences.
- Career development and training opportunities.
- Contribution to redefining cellular models of psychiatric disorders.
Requirements
- Master’s degree in neuroscience, stem cell biology, biomedicine, molecular biology, or related field.
- For PhD position, eligibility for postgraduate studies at UEF. Otherwise the position is filled as Project Researcher.
- Interest in human cell models, synaptic biology, psychiatric disease, and live imaging.
- Excellent English communication skills.
Advantages
- Experience in stem cell culture, CRISPR, microscopy, transcriptomics, neurobiology.
- Electrophysiology, Python, or R experience is a plus.
- Strong motivation, scientific drive, independence, and teamwork.
- Organization, time management, lab notebook practices, attention to detail.
- Curiosity and creativity in addressing scientific questions.
Benefits
- Flexible work arrangements.
- Extensive occupational health care and staff training.
- Staff discounts on meals and affordable sports services
Read more about the application through the link. Submit an electronic application form by 1 September 2025 (24:00 midnight Finnish time (UTC+3).
The University of Eastern Finland’s A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences in Kuopio offers a three-year fixed-term Doctoral Researcher or Project Researcher position in neurosciences. This role provides the opportunity to work with cutting-edge human stem cell models, CRISPR genome editing, and advanced imaging technologies to study the mechanisms linking genetic and environmental factors to psychiatric disorders. UEF offers an international research environment, modern laboratory facilities, and comprehensive staff benefits, all in the safe and innovative setting of Finland.