Cryo-electron microscope core facility engineer/specialist (structural biology)
We are looking to recruit a highly motivated cryo-electron microscopy (CryoEM) engineer / specialist to our structural biology cryoEM core facility at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, part of the INSTRUCT-HILIFE structural biology platform (including the cryoEM, protein crystallization and biocomplex purification units). The salary range is 3,300-4,300 €/month, the position is filled as soon as possible and the length of the employment is intially three years. Please find more information about the facility: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/infrastructures/integrated-structural-cell-biology
Description of position and duties
We are part of the national structural biology network FINSTRUCT on the national road infrastructure roadmap, and are an INSTRUCT-ERIC service center at the European level. We have been highly successful in securing instrument funding in 2025 from the Research Council of Finland. Therefore, we are aiming to update and expand our services in cryoEM with a 300 keV microscope and cryo-FIB/SEM installation scheduled in 2027.
Your current duties include the day-to-day operation of the national cryo-EM facility, which currently houses a 200-kV Talos Arctica with a Falcon 4i detector, featuring fringe-free imaging. You are also responsible for sample preparation using either a Leica GP2 or Cryosol Vitrojet, and assist users with their cryo-EM structural biology projects, alongside another engineer and the unit manager. We have a strong local cryo-EM research community, particularly in the Biomolecular Structure and Function research program (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-helsinki-institute-life-science/units/institute-biotechnology)and the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, in particular the Molecular and Integrative Biosciences research program. We aim to provide top-end service at the national and European level in the long term through the 300-kV microscope and cryo-FIB/SEM updates.
Ideal candidate should have:
1) PhD or equivalent experience (at least M.Sc. with a strong background in cryo-EM) is required.
2) A solid background in independent use of a modern 200 kV or preferably 300 kV cryo-electron microscope.
3) Knowledge in data processing and the capability to support, analyse and troubleshoot cryo-EM data collection and sample preparation, as well as data processing (the whole sample-to-structure workflow).
4) Strong teamwork skills and service attitude are required. Previous experience in cryo-EM infrastructure management is beneficial. Possibilities for scientific collaborations on user projects exist. However, this position is primarily a research service role.
5) Publications in the area of single particle cryo-EM and/or tomography would be desirable.
6) Any experience with cryo-FIB/SEM is advantageous, but not required at this stage.
What we offer
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.
Please read more why you should choose the University of Helsinki as your next place to work: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki
Contract & salary
Depending on experience, the position will be filled at University support and technical staff demand levels MV8-MV10 for research infrastructures (RI-engineer or RI-specialist). Gross salary range is ca. 3,300–4,300 €/month, depending on experience and qualifications and the level of hiring. A 6-month trial period is applied. The position is initially for three years, with a possibility for continuation as an open-ended contract.
Selection process
Selected candidates will be contacted for a remote interview, and the shortlisted candidates will be invited for a visit in person. All applicants will be informed of the decision on their part during the process. The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.
How to apply
Please submit your motivation letter (1 page), CV (max 3 pages), list of publications, and names and contact information of two potential references, latest by 30.11.2025.
Applications are to be sent as a single PDF file using the University’s recruitment system via the “Apply now” button.
For inquiries, contact the Head of Unit/Facility Manager, Dr. Tommi Kajander: tommi.kajander@helsinki.fi
University of Helsinki, Helsinki Institute of Life Science and Institute of Biotechnology
University of Helsinki is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE is an independent research institute that supports high-quality life science research across University campuses and faculties. 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 research programs. The Institute hosts several shared research infrastructures, including cutting-edge facilities for cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), light microscopy, sequencing, and proteomics. For more information, please visit: https://www.helsinki.fi/hilife/bi
Why Finland?
Finland is a very family-friendly country with generous parental leaves, affordable daycare available for all children and high-quality free primary, secondary and tertiary education as well as public healthcare. Finland is also ranked the happiest country in the world for eight consecutive years, and Helsinki as one of the most liveable cities in Europe. Please read why you should choose Helsinki https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki/why-helsinki and Finland https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki/why-finland as your next place to live!