Postdoctoral Researcher in Virus-host interactions
The research group of Dr. Tero Ahola, studying RNA virus replication and antivirals, in the Department of Microbiology, University of Helsinki, is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to study virus – host cell interactions in alphaviruses.
Viruses with RNA genomes cause most of the emerging and re-emerging infectious disease epidemics. Alphaviruses are mosquito-borne viruses causing febrile disease, found both in tropical and temperate regions. The project aims to establish a comprehensive view of host interaction during alphavirus replication by identifying host proteins that assist in virus replication. We aim to understand the specific actions that each host factor performs during virus replication. The proteins could assist e.g. in the modification of host cell membranes, as viruses rearrange the membranes to create protective replication vesicles. The host proteins important for virus replication are attractive new targets for antiviral drugs. The starting point of the project is a large proteomics dataset, so the project can be tailored together with the successful applicant based on their interest and prior experience. The work could include detailed virological, cell biological, or biochemical/structural characterization of the selected protein(s). We are supported by top-level local core facilities in proteomics, as well as light and electron microscopy and sequencing. The project entails collaboration with other teams and universities.
Qualifications
• You are ambitious, goal-oriented, collegial and motivated to tackle challenging new projects
• Have a PhD degree in (or in final stages to submit) in molecular or cell biology, biochemistry or virology
• Commitment to scientific excellence as demonstrated by a publication record
• Prior laboratory experience in working with mammalian cell cultures is essential
• High interest in learning and adapting new skillsets, and readiness to work with diverse teams
• Excellent command of English (working language, oral presentations, writing skills)
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational and time management skills
• Readiness to apply for national and international funding schemes
What we offer
The postdoctoral researcher will be appointed for four years, at the maximum, on a fixed term employment contract starting in September 2024 (or later, by agreement) and extending until August 2028 at the latest.
A six-month trial period will be applied.
We offer:
• A collaborative, innovative and inclusive work environment
• Support and mentoring for postdoctoral fellowship applications
• A competitive salary depending on your qualifications and personal performance, 5 weeks of annual holiday leave, flexible working hours
• Occupational health care and access to high-quality sports facilities
The salary of the postdoctoral researcher is based on level 5 of the demands level chart for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a personal salary component. The monthly salary in a full time postdoctoral researcher position is usually about 3 400 – 3 900 euros/month, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience.
How to apply
Please submit your application as a single pdf file in English using the University of Helsinki Recruitment System. Include the following, strictly follow the page limits, and do not include any other documents:
- A concise cover/motivation letter (no longer than one page),
- A curriculum vitae, structured as per TENK guidelines (applicable sections, see https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae), including the names and contact information for two references (max. three pages)
- Research statement (max. three pages) consisting of
- a brief description of previous research experience,
- outline of research skills, and
- how these skills could support research in this project and in Dr. Ahola’s group
The requested documents must be compiled in the above-specified order into a single PDF document. Note that compliance to given instructions constitutes a selection criterion.
The closing date for applications is 4 July 2024.
We will process applications already during the application period.
External applicants, please submit your application using the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the Apply Now button.
Applicants who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment contract, a grant researcher's contract or a visiting researcher's contract at the University of Helsinki are requested to leave their application by using the Employee Login button.
The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants from a variety of genders, linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
Further information
- For more information on the position, contact Dr Tero Ahola, tero.ahola@helsinki.fi.
- University of Helsinki recruitment system: HR Specialist Mirkka Juntunen, mirkka.juntunen@helsinki.fi
- Viikki Campus: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/campuses/viikki-campus
- Support for international staff: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/welcome and https://ihhelsinki.fi (International House Helsinki)
Discover more
The PI, Dr. Tero Ahola: https://researchportal.helsinki.fi/en/persons/tero-ahola
The University of Helsinki (https://www.helsinki.fi/en) is an international scientific community of 40,000 students and researchers. It is one of the leading multidisciplinary research universities in Europe. The Viikki campus (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/university-helsinki/campuses/viikki-campus) is one of the largest hubs of bioscience in Europe, with four faculties, research institutes and core facilities. The department of Microbiology focuses on microbial ecology and evolution, as well as the application of microbiology in agriculture and forestry, food production, medicine, environmental sciences and microbial biotechnology https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-agriculture-and-forestry/research/microbiology.