Doctoral student position, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine – The Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland
4.3.2020https://rekry.saima.fi/certiahome/open_job_view.html?did=5600&jc=1&id=00008865&lang=en
Ph.D. student position the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland.
The University of Oulu (http://www.oulu.fi/english/) is one of the largest universities in Finland, with approximately 15 000 students and 3 000 employees. Molecular and environmental basis for lifelong health is one of the strategic focus areas of the University.
Applications areinvited for a full-time PhD student max. 4 years) position, starting at the earliest on 01.09.2020 in a research project headed by Professor Taina Pihlajaniemi and Adjunct Professor Valerio Izzi in the Extracellular matrix & Hypoxia Research Unit, operating at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. The doctoral student is enrolled in the Health and Bioscience Doctoral Programme of the University of Oulu Graduate school Oulu, which provides support in theoretical and practical training (https://www.oulu.fi/uniogs/dp/hbsdp).
Our research project focuses in the interplay between acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and osteoblasts, especially in the context of extracellular matrix and intercellular communications, and its potential to unravel new therapeutic targets. We use bioinformatics, biochemical and cell biological methods, and genetic mouse models to understand how the relationships between AML and osteoblasts shape drug sensitivity and resistance, and how bidirectional communication networks are established. Furthermore, we have access to patient-derived material to evaluate our findings in primary patients and initiate pre-clinical studies. We offer a research environment with excellent technological facilities and a motivating and supporting community. This project is part of a larger consortium (the ELMI consortium https://www.oulu.fi/fbmm/node/196382) by which we can offer successful candidates access to state-of-the-art facilities to perform collaborative experiments outside Oulu when needed. More information can be found on our web pages https://www.oulu.fi/fbmm/node/195273
Requirements
The successful candidate for the Ph.D. position must possess a M.Sc. degree in the field of biochemistry, molecular or cell biology, medical science or related fields. We also invite applications from pre-graduate students from these fields of university studies. In this case, to be eligible for application, the candidate must demonstrate that he/she will graduate at home University not later than 31.12.2020 and also provide 1) an official statement from the home University attesting that all the courses, exams and other qualifications needed for graduation have already been obtained, 2) an official statement from the home University attesting that thesis has been submitted for evaluation and, 3) a letter of support from the candidate’s Supervisor (the minimum acceptable level for supervision is docent / assistant professor). Prior experience in cancer research, cell culture and cell-based experiments is required and proficiency in molecular biology and microscopy is expected. Prior knowledge of the research field is considered an advantage. Good communication and teamwork skills are appreciated. Fluency in both written and spoken English is required. Most importantly, we expect the candidate to have a high motivation to conduct high-level biomedical research.
Salary
The initial salary for the new Ph.D. student will be based on the demand level 2 of the national salary scale for teaching and research personnel of Finnish universities, supplemented with a personal renumeration for work performance from 6 to 50%, resulting in a monthly salary of roughly 1800-3000 €, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and prior experience.
A six-month trial period is applied to the position.
Applications
Applications, together with all relevant enclosures, must be submitted using the electronic application form by March 31, 2020, with the following attachments as three separate pdf files:
1. Complete CV containing contact information of at least two referees (Max. size limit of the attachment: 5 Mbytes)
2. Motivation letter (maximum 1 page) describing prior knowledge and research interests and career plans (1-2 pages; max. size limit of the attachment: 2 Mbytes).
3. Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned electronic copies of diplomas and transcripts of the records of relevant previous degrees. For the candidates who do not yet hold the M.Sc. degree, please provide: 1) an official statement from the home University attesting that all the courses, exams and other qualifications needed for graduation have already been obtained, 2) an official statement from the home University attesting that thesis has been submitted for evaluation and, 3) a letter of support from the candidate’s Supervisor (the minimum acceptable level for supervision is docent / assistant professor). (Max. size limit of the attachment: 2 Mbytes)
4. Other relevant information: for the candidates who do not yet hold the M.Sc. degree, 1) an official statement from the home University attesting that the coming graduation date of the candidate is 31.12.2020 at the latest; 2) an official statement from the home University attesting that all the courses, exams and other qualifications needed for graduation have already been obtained; 3) an official statement from the home University attesting that thesis has been submitted for evaluation and, 4) a letter of support from the candidate’s Supervisor (the minimum acceptable level for supervision is docent / assistant professor).
Applications sent by email will not be considered.
The eligible applicants fitting best in the research profile expected for the position may be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified when the selection process is completed.
Contact
Prof. Taina Pihlajaniemi, e-mail: taina.pihlajaniemi (at) oulu.fi
Adj. Prof. Valerio Izzi, e-mail: valerio.izzi (at) oulu.fi