Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of Virology
Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a fixed-term position of
Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of Virology
Short Introduction
The Virus Infections and Immunity Research Group invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate the human virome and its impact on human health and disease. We combine cutting-edge wet-lab experimentation with advanced computational approaches to map the diversity, dynamics, and tissue distribution of viruses in the human body. We investigate how these viral communities influence disease susceptibility and pathogenesis, immunity and molecular physiology.
We are located at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Helsinki, Meilahti campus.
The position is available from 1.1.2026 or by mutual agreement, for a period of 2 years, with a possibility of extension, and subject to a 6 month trial period.
About the Role
The successful candidate will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment dedicated to exploring host–virus interactions, and their impact on human health and disease. The position comprises wet-lab experiments, advanced computational analyses, and development of innovative methodologies to investigate the human tissue-resident virome.
The position is embedded within a dedicated and inspiring research group that values interdisciplinary teamwork, scientific rigor, and innovation. We work in close collaboration with clinicians and other experts in molecular virology, immunology, genomics, and bioinformatics.
Qualifications
• PhD (completed or near completion) in medicine, virology, molecular biology, immunology, computational biology, or a related field.
• Proven experience in wet-lab techniques relevant to virology, molecular biology, or immunology.
• Expertise in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), including both laboratory methods and data analysis pipelines, will be considered an asset.
• Knowledge in bioinformatics/data analysis, and ability to handle complex datasets, will be considered an asset.
• Strong publication record relative to career stage.
• Excellent communication skills in English and ability to work both independently and within a collaborative research team.
The degree requirement must be met by the beginning of the employment. The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.
What we provide
The group fosters an open, collaborative, and supportive environment, where your expertise will be valued, and you will be encouraged to develop independent research lines, co-supervise students, and contribute to high-impact publications.
https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/virus-infections-and-immunity
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.
The salary for the postdoctoral position is in accordance with the general collective agreement for Finnish universities.
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 motivation, relevant expertise, research interests, career goals, and why you are the perfect fit for this role.
• A complete Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications and at least two referees.
• Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copies of diplomas and transcripts of relevant previous degrees.
Closing date for applications 31.10.2025
Contact person: Maria Perdomo, MD PhD, maria.perdomo@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.
About University of Helsinki
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 organization 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 center together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE). This medical center has been successful in international comparisons, ranking among the top 10 medical campuses in Europe and the top 50 globally.