Doctoral Researcher in the field of Chemical proteomics/Cancer Research
Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a fixed-term position of
Doctoral Researcher in the field of Chemical proteomics/Cancer Research
from 01.09.2025 or according to agreement.
Short Introduction
We are recruiting a Doctoral Researcher to the project “Systems Pharmacology for Rational Combinatorial Cancer Therapy” in the Systems Pharmacology Jafari Lab at the University of Helsinki. The project is pursued in close collaboration with the University of Tampere and is funded by the ERKKO Foundation. The position is for 1 year, with a potential extension, and we hope the candidate can start in autumn 2025.
Background
Our group develops and applies systems pharmacology strategies to design rational combinatorial therapies for cancer. We combine both computational (dry-lab) and experimental (wet-lab) approaches to tackle challenges such as:
• Prioritizing drug combinations based on single-drug response data
• Optimizing treatment strategies for synergy, efficacy, and toxicity
• Deciphering drug mechanisms through target deconvolution and functional omics
We make extensive use of mass spectrometry-based proteomics, metabolomics, and phosphoproteomics to understand drug responses at a systems level.
For more information, please visit: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/systems-pharmacology
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated early-career researcher with interdisciplinary experience in wet-lab and computational techniques. This position is intended for an MSc-level graduate planning to pursue a PhD degree. In this project, we aim to profile AML cancer cells treated with drug combinations using multi-omics data. The primary focus will be on mass spectrometry-based proteomics and metabolomics, paired with drug response and target deconvolution strategies. The research includes, sample preparation, cell culturing, and drug perturbation assays, LC-MS/MS analysis and omics data processing, integrative analysis of proteomics/metabolomics.
Qualifications
Essential
- MSc degree (or pending graduation) in bioinformatics, biochemistry, biotechnology, or related field
- Experience in mass spectrometry-based data analysis
- Solid background in statistics and omics data processing
- Proficiency in R or Python for bioinformatics analysis
- Hands-on experience with cell culture, pipetting, and sample preparation
- Strong oral and written communication skills in English
Desirable
- Familiarity with preprocessing tools (e.g., MaxQuant, MS-DIAL, MetaboAnalyst, Sirius)
- Experience in scientific communication (e.g., conference presentations, GitHub, posters)
Personal skills
- High motivation for scientific research
- Ability to work independently and in collaborative environments
- Problem-solving mindset and adaptability
The appointee should either already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki by the start of the appointment or apply for the right and obtain it within the probationary period of six months of their appointment. If the candidate does not already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki, it must be applied for separately: www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-education/the-application-process-in-a-nutshell. The requirements for pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki can be found at https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-education/eligibility-and-educational-documents. The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.
What we offer
This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of systems biology, pharmacology, and cancer research. The candidate will benefit from a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment with access to cutting-edge bioinformatics and wet-lab facilities. A supportive supervisory team will provide career development and scientific guidance. The position is fixed for one year, with a possible extension based on performance. The starting date is autumn 2025, and a six-month trial period applies. The monthly gross salary will range between 2400 and 2700 euros, depending on qualifications and experience, in accordance with the salary system of Finnish universities.
The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.
How to apply
Applications should be submitted in English through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the "Apply now" button.
Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications by using the Employee Login button.
Please submit your application as a single pdf file, comprising the following documents in English:
• A motivation letter outlining your previous knowledge and research interests, career goals, and why you are the perfect fit for this role.
• A complete Curriculum Vitae
• Contact details for 2-3 references
• Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copies of diplomas and transcripts of relevant previous degrees.
The closing date for applications is July 10th 2025.
We encourage informal inquiries: mohieddin.jafari@helsinki.fi
The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of any gender and age, linguistic or cultural background, or minority group.
Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.
About us
The Faculty of Medicine promotes high quality scientific research. It provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology and logopedics, and an international Master's Programme in Translational Medicine. It also offers psychotherapist education. In addition to its teaching and research activities, the faculty serves as a significant expert organisation in the healthcare sector and contributes to the discourse on ethics in the field. The faculty aims to be one of the best medical research faculties in the world, while reinforcing its status as a distinguished institution of multidisciplinary education in healthcare.
The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki constitutes the academic medical centre together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE). This medical centre has been successful in international comparisons, ranking among the top 10 medical campuses in Europe and the top 50 globally.
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