Professor Olli Kallioniemi’s lab at the University of Helsinki is currently seeking a

Data Scientist or Biomolecular Scientist for Data and AI-Driven Molecular Medicine research program

Location: Helsinki, Finland
Unit:  Helsinki Institute of Life Science
Sub-unit: Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM)

Research group: Precision Systems Medicine, Professor Olli Kallioniemi

Are you interested about exploring the possibilities of generative AI and AI agents in biomedical research? Do you enjoy exploring complex biological data, developing new computational approaches, or building software and data systems that enable scientific discovery?

We are looking for a Data Scientist or Biomolecular Scientist to join the interdisciplinary research environment led by Professor Olli Kallioniemi at FIMM, University of Helsinki. The position is funded through a Data- and AI-Driven Molecular Medicine (DAIMM) project grant.

Our research focuses on developing new ways of using generative AI, AI agents and data-driven approaches to explore biology. Cancer and precision medicine, including prostate cancer, are important application areas, while the methods and technologies developed are intended to be broadly applicable across biomedical research.

We welcome applicants with an MSc, MSc (Eng) or PhD in biology, molecular medicine, bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, data science, software engineering or a related field.

For candidates with a life science background, we are looking for a strong understanding of biology, molecular medicine or a related biomedical discipline, combined with significant experience in computational analysis of biological or biomedical data. Programming skills, for example in Python or R, are an advantage but are not required. Previous experience with single-cell or spatial omics data analysis, multi-omics data integration, genomics, cancer biology, precision medicine, machine learning or generative AI is an advantage.

For candidates with a data science or computer science background, we are looking for strong programming skills, particularly in Python or related languages. Experience with data engineering, databases, data pipelines and integrating heterogeneous datasets is expected. Experience with biological or health-related data is an advantage.

All applicants should have an interest in generative AI, AI agents and emerging AI technologies, as well as excellent communication skills in English. We do not expect candidates to have expertise in all areas. Scientific curiosity, computational ability and enthusiasm for developing new AI-driven approaches to biomedical research are particularly important.

Key responsibilities

Depending on the candidate's background, responsibilities may include:
•    Develop and apply AI-driven and computational approaches for analyzing large-scale biological, molecular and clinical datasets.
•    Explore the use of generative AI, large language models, and AI agents.
•    Develop data infrastructure, databases, software tools, APIs, and computational pipelines.
•    Collaborate with biological, computational, and clinical researchers to connect computational approaches and findings with experimental and medical research.

What we offer
•    An opportunity to work at the interface of artificial intelligence, biological discovery and precision medicine.
•    A collaborative and supportive interdisciplinary research environment bringing together expertise in biology, medicine, computational research and data science.
•    The opportunity to explore and develop emerging AI technologies, including generative AI and AI agents, for scientific discovery.
•    A chance to contribute to the development of new computational tools, workflows and AI-enabled research environments in life science.
•    An international research environment at FIMM and the University of Helsinki, with opportunities for scientific collaboration and professional development.

The salary will be based on the salary system of the the Finnish universities. The position will initially be filled until the end of 2028. A six-month trial period will be applied.

To apply, please submit your application, including your CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience, through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on Apply for job. Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) please submit your applications through the SAP HR portal.

Applications are welcome as soon as possible - the call will be open until 30 November 2026, and may be extended until the hiring decision is made.

For further information please contact coordinator Erika Romppanen (erika.romppanen@helsinki.fi).

A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions.

Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.

JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER! 
#HelsinkiUniCareers

The Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM) is an international research unit focusing on human genomics and personalised medicine at the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) of the University of Helsinki - a leading Nordic university with a strong commitment to life science research. As part of Academic Medical Center Helsinki in Meilahti campus FIMM collaborates locally with the Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital and National Institute for Health and Welfare. FIMM is part of the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine, composed of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and the centres for molecular medicine in Norway, Sweden and Denmark, and the EU-LIFE Community.

Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) is an institute established in 2017 that supports high quality life science research across the University campuses and faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths and new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for researchers to solve grand challenges in health, food, and environment. HiLIFE coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences and provides research-based interdisciplinary training.

The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities. The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.

Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see helsinki.fi/en/university/working-at-the-university.