Scientist / Senior Scientist in Mass Spectrometry -based Proteome Research

Scientist / Senior Scientist in Mass Spectrometry -based Proteome Research

About Us

The Protein and Proteome Network Helsinki (PPN Helsinki) is a state-of-the-art technology platform operating on two life-science campuses at the University of Helsinki. Dedicated to advancing proteomics research, we provide cutting-edge services and collaborate with researchers to explore protein functions, interactions, and dynamics. As part of the Faculty of Medicine, we strive to be one of the best medical research faculties globally, reinforcing our status as a distinguished institution of multidisciplinary education in healthcare.

Your Role
We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist / Senior Scientist to join our dynamic team and contribute to our mission of fostering innovation and scientific excellence in proteomics.

Key Responsibilities
Research and Development

• Investigate and evaluate new sample preparation protocols, including methods for bottom-up proteomics (protein digestion, peptide clean-up), enrichment of post-translationally modified peptides, and handling sub-nanogram quantities of proteins.
• Optimize protocols for sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility to be deployed as new or updated services offered by PPN Helsinki.
• Research and assess novel workflows for mass spectrometry (MS) data acquisition and data analysis.

Operational Support

• Perform day-to-day technical operations on the high-resolution LC-MS/MS systems
• Assist in preparing samples for analysis using existing protocols currently deployed at the facility
• Participate in routine maintenance of existing equipment to ensure optimal performance
• Maintain records of instrument usage, downtime, and experimental procedures

Collaboration and Communication

• Work collaboratively to maintain the laboratory in excellent working order
• Communicate and collaborate effectively to deliver high-quality results on time
• Provide recommendations to core leadership regarding the adoption of new platforms and technologies
• Interact with PPN Helsinki customers to educate them about existing technologies, equipment capabilities, limitations, and expected outcomes
• Prepare reports and meet with clients to discuss findings and provide expert insights

Administrative Duties

• Oversee the stock of materials and supplies, coordinating procurement to ensure uninterrupted operation of the Clinical Proteomics Core Facility
• Work with service contract providers to restore operations of the LC-MS/MS system promptly in case of system downtime

Qualifications

• Educational Background:
  • Master's degree required; Ph.D. preferred in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related life science discipline.
• Experience:
  • 2+ years of research experience with proteomic or related technologies.
  • Strong background in protein chemistry is required.
  • Experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomics is highly preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in using both vendor-specific and publicly available software tools for MS data analysis.
  • Detail-oriented both at the lab bench and with record-keeping.
  • Good command of English, both written and spoken.
• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent time management and organizational abilities.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Willingness to learn and routinely apply various sample preparation protocols.
  • Ability to provide demonstrations and training to scientists within the institute.
  • Eagerness to learn and participate in data analysis efforts.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary: The salary is based on the Finnish university salary system, depending on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits: The University of Helsinki offers extensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.
• Dynamic work environment: Be part of a world-class medical research faculty that ranks among the top 10 medical campuses in Europe and the top 50 globally.
• Professional growth: Opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with leading experts in the field.

Join Us
Employment is expected to start on January 1st, 2025, or as agreed. The position is initially for two years with a possibility of extension. A 6-month trial period will be applied. The title of the position will be depending on the qualifications and experience of the appointee: Postdoctoral Researcher / University Researcher / Specialist (appointee with a MSc).

How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the "Apply now" button.

Internal applicants (current employees of the University of Helsinki) should submit their applications using the "Employee Login" button.

Please include the following enclosures:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Reference Contacts

Application deadline: November 15th, 2024.

For further information on the position, please contact Dr. Markku Varjosalo at markku.varjosalo@helsinki.fi.

The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of any gender, age, linguistic or cultural background, or minority group.

About the University of Helsinki
The Faculty of Medicine promotes high-quality scientific research and provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology, and logopedics, as well as an international Master's Programme in Translational Medicine. In addition to its teaching and research activities, the faculty serves as a significant expert organization in the healthcare sector and contributes to ethical discourse in the field.

Together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), the Faculty of Medicine constitutes an academic medical centre recognized for excellence in international comparisons.

JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER!
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