Doctoral researcher in RNA gene evolution, Mönttinen group

The University of Helsinki is one of the world's leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE is an independent research institute that supports high quality life science research across the University's campuses and faculties. The Institute of Biotechnology BI, part of HiLIFE, is an internationally renowned research institute with an inclusive and curiosity-driven working culture. Research activities are carried out in research groups organised into three multidisciplinary research programmes. For further information please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/hilife/bi. 

Project Summary

We are seeking a PhD student to join the project "Mutation clusters and origin of regulatory RNA genes" funded by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation and led by Dr Heli Mönttinen at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki.

In this project we aim to identify recent and ancient mutation events in human regulatory RNA gene regions and study their impact on gene function and structure using a range of sequence analysis and comparative genomic methods. The projects will also involve programming for data collection and analysis. As a PhD student, you will screen mutation events from large genomic datasets and analyse the effects of the identified mutations using existing software as well as well as newly developed computational methods. You are also be expected to report your results in a scientific publication as a first author with the help of other members of the group.

Skills, experience/qualifications 

The successful candidate should have:

* Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g. bioinformatics, genetics, molecular biology)
* Proven programming skills (preferably Python, other languages also appreciated)
* A strong background in biology 
* Strong interest in molecular evolution
* Good written and oral communication skills (in English)
* Willingness to work both independently and as part of a team 

We also appreciate: 

* Good statistical skills
* Ability to handle large datasets
* Experience of working in HPC environments
* Previous experience in RNA and comparative genomics

Position details 

The successful candidate will be employed on a full-time, three-year fixed term contract starting in September 2025 (or later by agreement). The position includes a six-month trial period.

Applicants for the PhD researcher position have to apply the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the first six months of employment. The application periods for  doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki are in February and September. For more information on the degree requirements and the application process, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-school.. 

The salary is based on level 2 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research staff in the Finnish university salary system. In addition, the appointee will receive a salary component based on personal performance. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive benefits to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. The doctoral researcher will also benefit from the courses, funding opportunities and training offered by the University of Helsinki Doctoral School.

Application and selection procedure 

To apply, please send the following documents in a single pdf file:

* A letter of motivation (max. 2 A4 pages), including:
     i) Your motivation to apply

     ii) Description of your skills and research experience
    iii) How your experience supports the research position
* A curriculum vitae, structured according to the TENK guidelines (include only applicable sections, see https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae)
* A link to a coding sample in your Github profile (included to CV)
* Contact details of two referees (can be included to CV)
* Copy of M.Sc. degree (or equivalent) diploma and a transcript of completed credits

Please submit your application using the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on "Apply for the position." Internal applicants must submit their applications through the SAP Fiori portal.

The deadline for applications is 16 May 2025.

The selection process will involve an initial shortlisting, followed by interviews with selected candidates. The interview may include a small bioinformatics task to be solved by the candidate during the interview. For more information about the position, please contact Heli Mönttinen (heli.monttinen(at)helsinki.fi).

Helsinki Institute of Life Science, HiLIFE, offers an international, inspiring, and supportive work environment. HiLIFE is a life science institute at the University of Helsinki established in 2017 supporting high quality research across campuses and life science faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths, new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for solving grand challenges in health, food, and environment. It coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences, provides research-based interdisciplinary training and supports researchers within its units and partner faculties. In 2019 HiLIFE has a staff of 600 and a budget of 59 M€.

For more information on the Institute, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-life-science.

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 https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.