Postdoc and PhD Student Positions in Neurobiology / Molecular Cell Biology

The research group led by Associate Professor Juha Saarikangas is seeking talented postdoctoral researchers and PhD students. Our team explores how global changes in protein folding and assembly states contribute to spatially organized and adaptive biochemistries in cells using multidisciplinary cutting-edge approaches, including imaging, proteomics, biochemical reconstitutions, and genetic engineering.

We investigate the biological role of proteome plasticity in three contexts:
1.    We study how neuronal synapses process and store information through structural changes in synaptic proteins. Our aim is to identify new memory molecules that constitute the synaptic basis of memory (see e.g., Saarikangas et al. 2015, Dev Cell).
2.    We characterize how structural variations in the cellular proteome contribute to aging using budding yeast as a model. Our goal is to uncover fundamental molecular processes of aging and age-related disorders (see e.g., Paukstyte et al. 2023, Mol Cell; Saarikangas et al. 2017, Curr Biol; Saarikangas et al. 2015, eLife).
3.    Using multicellular snowflake yeast as a model, we investigate how structural plasticity of the cellular proteome can contribute to the evolution of novel multicellular traits (see e.g., Montrose et al. 2024, Science Advances).

We are looking for collegial, ambitious, and forward-thinking scientists with a passion for research to join our friendly team. A background in neurobiology, molecular cell biology, microscopy, biochemistry, structural biology, or bioinformatics is desirable. Postdocs are also encouraged to develop their own research lines.

Applicants for the PhD student position must successfully obtain the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the first 6 months of employment. Postdoc applicants must hold a doctoral degree by the start date of the appointment.

We are located at one of the leading Nordic life science institutes, the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), and provide an international and stimulating work environment that offers unique opportunities for conducting cutting-edge science, establishing collaborations, and accessing excellent core facilities and benefits, including occupational health care, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, and sports facilities. Depending on qualifications, the full-time positions are offered for up to 3 years with a possibility for extension. The starting time is negotiable. The positions come with a competitive salary and benefits in accordance with the University of Helsinki regulations. A six-month trial period will be applied.

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.

The positions are open until January 15, 2025, or until suitable candidates are found. The application should include the following documents as a single PDF file: a motivation letter describing your research interests (max 1 page), a CV, and contact information for at least two referees. To apply, 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.
For informal inquiries, please contact juha.saarikangas(at)helsinki.fi. For technical support regarding the recruitment system, please contact rekrytointi(at)helsinki.fi.

Helsinki Institute of Life Science
Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) is a research 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.
 
University of Helsinki
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.