Postdoctoral position in Structural Biology/Biochemistry
The HiLIFE - Institute of Biotechnology (BI) is a research institute that operates at the highest international level. It includes 40 research groups and 250 researchers. The Institute is situated in the Viikki science park. For more information on the Institute, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-institute-of-biotechnology.
The HiLIFE - Institute of Biotechnology, Johanna Syrjänen laboratory group invites applications for a
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER
Our lab works on understanding the molecular basis for cellular communication and signaling. We use a multidisciplinary approach by combining structural biology, biochemistry, and biophysics techniques to address fundamental questions in this field.
The successful applicant will join a project funded by the Research Council of Finland to investigate the micronutrient scavenging mechanisms of pathogenic fungi. They will focus on the structural and functional characterization of membrane protein complexes involved in zinc scavenging.
About the position
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with a background in molecular biology, protein expression and protein purification, as well as experience in structural biology. Experience of single particle cryo-EM or working with membrane proteins is highly desirable but not required. The ideal candidate should have strong interpersonal skills, be able to work collaboratively in a team and be adaptable to the different types of tasks and techniques throughout the project. They should also have excellent communication skills in English.
Further degree requirement for postdoctoral position: The degree requirement must be met by the beginning of the employment.
The position is for 3 years starting in early 2025 or as agreed. A trial period of 6 months will be applied, and the salary will be based on the Universities salary scheme for teaching and research personnel composed of both task specific and personal performance components. The starting salary is ca. 3700 – 4300 euros, depending on the qualifications and experience of the applicant.
What we offer
We offer an opportunity to work in an exciting, ground-breaking project funded by the Research Council of Finland. We have an enthusiastic, collaborative, and inclusive work environment. Our lab is part of the Biomolecular Structure and Function Research Program at the Institute of Biotechnology.
We value mentorship and training. The applicant will be supported in postdoctoral fellowship applications (such as EMBO, Marie Skłodowska-Curie, etc.) and will have the opportunity to present their research at national and international conferences.
As well as infrastructure for biochemical and biophysical characterization of proteins, we benefit from an in-house 200 kV Talos Arctica microscope fitted with a Falcon 4i camera for screening and data collection. We also have access to data collection on Titan Krios 300 kV cryo-electron microscopes at international facilities.
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.
How to apply
The deadline for the applications is 31.12. but the position will be filled immediately once a suitable candidate has been identified.
Application should include the following documents as a single pdf file: CV (with the names and contact details of 2-3 referees), list of publications, and a motivation letter describing your current/past projects, career goals, what you would like to learn from the Syrjänen lab and what you might bring to the Syrjänen lab.
Please submit your application, together with the required attachments, through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the ‘Apply for job’ button. Applicants who are employees of the University of Helsinki are requested to leave their application via SAP Fiori.
For further information and inquiries please contact Group Leader Johanna Syrjänen (email: johanna.syrjanen(at)helsinki.fi). For further information on the recruitment system or process, you may contact HR Partner Anu Roine (anu.roine(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.