Ajankohtaista

Postdoctoral Researcher in Immunological Mechanisms of Inflammation and Tumorigenesis – Oulu

3.8.2026 | Avoimet työpaikat

https://oulunyliopisto.varbi.com/fi/what:job/jobID:952490/iframeEmbedded:0/where:4?utm_source=duunitori.fi&utm_medium=referral

Apply latest by 14.08.2026

Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Disease Networks 

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

Postdoctoral Researcher in Immunological Mechanisms of Inflammation and Tumorigenesis

to join us at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, whose mission is to perform internationally significant research and to deliver high-level undergraduate and post-graduate education in the fields of biochemistry and molecular medicine. The Faculty’s research focus areas are cell-extracellular matrix, protein science and cellular regulatory and metabolic networks and related diseases. The Faculty has collectively about 200 employees and about half of them are from abroad.

About the job

Inflammation and cancer are worldwide significant health problems. Dysregulated immune responses are major contributors. The project aims at understanding the immunological mechanisms of inflammation and tumorigenesis, especially focusing on investigating the role of helper T lymphocytes. We will address the questions by using in vitro assays as well as in vivo disease models. Cutting-edge systems biology approaches, such as RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, proteomics and single-cell omics will apply.

The details of the research project will be mutually agreed upon, based on the qualifications, interests, and expertise of the candidate. Candidates with expertise on immunology and solid knowledge and working experience with cell biology or molecular biology will be considered.

Who are you?

  • As a postdoctoral researcher you must hold a recent PhD degree in life sciences. The doctoral degree must have been completed by the closing date for applications. The degree must have been obtained no more than 10 years ago.
  • Your experience with animal work is preferred. 
  • Demonstrated experience in writing scientific publications, potential in acquiring supplementary funding and teaching experience will be taken as merits.
  • Fluent oral and written English skills, IT skills, bioinformatics as well as good communication and teamwork skills are required.
  • You will also be part of multidisciplinary research group. As part of the FBMM, the duties may also include supervising scientific research of BSc, MSc, and PhD students. Participation in teaching within the faculty curriculum and in acquiring research funding is expected.

What we offer

  • The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team, with whom you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
  • Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
  • Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.
  • 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. 
  • Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
  • 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.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 16 months. The starting date is 01.09.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 3600-4200 € per month (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 14.8.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

  1. Cover letter
  2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
  3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland 
  4. Certificates/Diplomas
  5. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation

When assessing the candidate’s merits for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher, attention will be paid to scientific excellence, such as research outputs, international scientific activities and collaboration, supervision of undergraduate students, pedagogical competence, societal relevance, impact and potential of scientific activities, and services for the academic community.

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, such as people of different ages, genders and lingual, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Dr Zhi Chen, Associate Professor, e-mail: zhi.chen(at)oulu.fi.  

Director, Pain and Inflammation Research (Hybrid work) – Orion

5.11.2025 | Avoimet työpaikat

Apply latest by 9.11.

https://duunitori.fi/tyopaikat/tyo/director-pain-and-inflammation-research-sosri-19709683?utm_source=loimu&utm_medium=site

Job description

Orion Corporation is a well-established, financially stable pharmaceutical company operating in more than 35 countries, including recently established R&D hubs in NYC, USA and Cambridge, UK. In the Pain Therapy Area, we focus on targets modulating sensory neuron hyperexcitability and neuro-immune interactions. Additionally, we are looking to expand our research into inflammatory diseases. As the current Head of Pain Research is retiring, we are seeking new talent to shape the future of the Therapy Area. 

We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to head our Pain and Inflammation Research within the Pain Therapy area. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of pain and inflammation therapeutics by driving scientific innovation, strategic collaborations, and portfolio development. The successful candidate will lead a group of over 20 dedicated scientists and research associates, manage cross-functional teams, and foster partnerships with academia and industry to advance our mission of delivering transformative treatments for pain and inflammation-related diseases. 
Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Portfolio Development 

  • Lead the research strategy and portfolio building within the Therapy Area. 
  • Define and execute long-term research goals aligned with company strategy and unmet medical needs in pain and inflammation. 
  • Evaluate new project ideas and guide ongoing research projects to ensure scientific excellence and strategic alignment. 

Scientific and Collaborative Leadership

  • Lead target biology initiatives ensuring robust scientific direction and innovation. 
  • Scout and assess new modalities, technologies, and treatment options for pain and inflammation-related diseases. 
  • Lead preclinical strategic collaborations with academic institutions and other pharmaceutical companies, in coordination with internal experts. 
  • Evaluate and support in-licensing opportunities to strengthen the portfolio. 

Cross-functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with other key functions to ensure appropriate project support and resourcing. 
  • Network actively with in-house and external experts to stay at the forefront of research and therapeutic innovation. 

People Leadership & Development

  • Lead the Pain and Inflammation Research group located in Turku, Finland, including full line management responsibilities in accordance with company policies. 
  • Support the career development of scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning. 

External Engagement

  • Represent the company in strategic collaborations with academic institutions and other pharmaceutical companies. 
  • Act as a thought leader in the research community through publications, presentations, and participation in key scientific forums. 

What We Offer: 
We offer a dynamic and innovative research environment where you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of the Therapy Area. Our workplace culture is built on mutual respect, continuous learning, and shared values, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. With a collaborative culture that spans global teams, we support meaningful connections and shared success. In addition to engaging work, we provide competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your personal and professional growth. 

At Orion Pharma, your work creates true impact and well-being for our customers, patients and society at large. Our culture of friendliness, respect, mutual appreciation and diversity creates a safe working environment where you can strive for excellence. We offer a wealth of career paths and development opportunities that support the development of innovative solutions and improving the quality of life. 

Please visit our website to find further information about our values and Orion as an employer https://www.orion.fi/en/careers/orion-as-an-employer/ 

Orion Pharma will support relocation. You can work flexibly in a hybrid model in accordance with Orion’s relevant guidelines. 

Our expectations 

  • PhD or MD/PhD in immunology, neuroscience, pharmacology, or related field with a strong background in pain and inflammation research. 
  • Proven track record in leading research teams and managing complex scientific projects in pharmaceutical industry. 
  • Experience in drug discovery and development, particularly in pain and inflammation. 
  • Demonstrated ability to build and manage strategic collaborations. 
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. 
  • Experience in portfolio strategy and evaluation of external opportunities is highly desirable. 

Additional Information 

If you are the person we are looking for, please submit your cover letter and CV by 9 th November 2025. 

#LI-ORION 

Approved medical examination which also includes drug testing is required prior to the employment. 

Orion Pharma’s pharmaceutical innovations are created within its R&D organization. We employ around 400 top professionals in the field of drug discovery and development. We work globally: in Espoo and Turku in Finland, in Cambridge and Nottingham in England and in New York, NY, USA. Orion R&D and the Innovative Medicines business division are dedicated to making a transformation to become a global player in the pain and oncology therapy areas.