Ajankohtaista

Doctoral Researcher – Turku, Finland

Apply by: 2 June 2026

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.

Apply here!

Doctoral researcher in Optical Spectroscopy, Helsinki

The University of Helsinki, Department of Chemistry, is seeking a Doctoral Researcher to join the research group of University Lecturer Markus Metsälä, starting November 2025 or as agreed. The position is full-time for a maximum of four years, with a six-month trial period at the start.

The role is part of the project “Gas Ion Separation Combined with Optical Spectroscopy: Next-Generation Detection of Threat Chemicals”, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The project, in collaboration with VERIFIN (Finnish Institute for Verification of the Chemical Weapons Convention), aims to combine ultra-sensitive photoacoustic spectroscopy with a rapid chemical separation technique, Gas Ion Distillation (GID). The Doctoral Researcher will develop a mid-infrared laser spectrometer using cantilever-enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy (CEPAS) and integrate it with the GID system for selective and sensitive detection of chemical warfare agents. The University of Helsinki has extensive experience in CEPAS for gas sensing applications.

Qualifications & Skills

• Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, or a related field.
• Prior experience in optical spectroscopy or laser instrumentation.
• Knowledge of chemical separation techniques or ion mobility spectrometry is advantageous.
• Ability to obtain or already hold doctoral study rights at the University of Helsinki.
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Motivated and enthusiastic about experimental research and trace gas analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize mid-IR CEPAS-based laser spectrometer.
• Collaborate with project partners to integrate the spectrometer with the GID setup.
• Conduct experimental research and contribute to publications and project reporting.
• Participate in a multidisciplinary, international research environment and contribute to knowledge exchange.

Opportunities & Benefits

• Work and study in a supportive, international, and multidisciplinary environment that values equality, diversity, inclusion, and well-being.
• Relocation support for international staff.
• Access to occupational health care, insurance for work-related travel and accidents, sports services, and professional development opportunities.
• Competitive salary based on Finnish university collective agreements.

Read more about the application process through the link. Application Deadline: September 29, 2025 (23:59 UTC +3)