Doctoral Researcher, Microfluidics and Biosensors Laboratory, Faculty of Biochemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for a

Doctoral researcher

to join us in Microfluidics and Biosensors Laboratory at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. The microfluidics and biosensors group, led by Professor Caglar Elbuken focuses on non-linear microfluidic systems and nanofluidics, specifically on droplet microfluidics, artificial cells, extracellular vesicles and viscoelastic fluids. Our European Research Council (ERC) project, BiNet, is on understanding the fundamental principles and implications of nonlinear dynamics in bifurcating networks. Specifically, we are interested in red blood cell flow dynamics in blood vessel network. Our Academy Finland project aims construction of tissue-like structures using artificial cells and vesicles. We utilize experimental, numerical and analytical methods in all our projects. Our research group performs interdisciplinary research at the intersection of engineering, physics, biochemistry and material science.

About the job

Our research is at the intersection of science and engineering focusing on artificial cells, extracellular vesicle isolation technologies and nonlinear microfluids. Artificial vesicles and protocell research have gained traction as a bottom-up approach in understanding nature’s complexity. Our goal is to engineer individual lipid and polymer stabilized vesicles to enable the self-assembly of 3D structures. We aim to understand and tailor the dynamics of individual liposomes or polymersomes using microfluidic approaches. We are also interested in the kinetics of vascularization as a complex adaptive biological system.

Primary duties for this position are:

• Conduct self-initiated and collaborative research to address cutting-edge research questions.
• Participate in activities and projects that lead to high-quality academic publications.
• Collaborate with the group leader, other researchers, and our collaboration partners.
• Contribute to teaching activities subject to the needs of the faculty and the candidate's interests. 

What we offer?

• A research opportunity in a multidisciplinary, experienced group working on cutting edge research problems to advance your career.
• Outstanding infrastructural resources and specialized core facility service laboratories such as Biocenter Oulu, advanced imaging and characterization tools, cleanroom micro/nanofabrication and material characterization.
• Regular salary is paid 12 months per year, including paid leave and an additional holiday bonus in the summer.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits. 
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• University´s wide variety of support services are at your disposal, allowing you to focus on your studies and research / work. You will be provided opportunity free occupational health care provided by the university. In addition to modern research facilities, we offer personnel benefits such as sport services, social activities organized by the university and endless opportunities to develop your skills and competences.
• The successful candidate will also receive benefits provided by the Finnish government to residents, for example possibility to obtain access to the national healthcare system, the benefits of the Nordic welfare state, tax benefits for employees with children and high-quality, affordable childcare services.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

We invite applications from candidates who have strong research skills in technical, medical, and/or health sciences and are interested in pursuing work across and beyond disciplinary boundaries. Applicants should have the capability and passion for working on a research project examining, for example, microfluidically generated liposomes, self-assembly kinetics, nonlinear microfluidics, complex adaptive systems.

We expect from you: 

• Master's degree in engineering (mechanical, electrical, chemical), chemistry, applied physics, bioengineering, biophysics, or a related field. The applicants close to finishing their Master’s degrees will be considered eligible to apply. The degree must be completed prior to beginning the employment
• Fluent oral and written English skills, good communication and teamwork skills 
• Strong technical background and motivation to work on cutting-edge research questions
• Positive attitude towards learning new skills and working in an interdisciplinary environment 

We also appreciate

• Experience in microfluidic systems: fabrication, testing, simulation
• Experience in liposome synthesis and/or characterization
• Peer-reviewed publication experience in mainstream journals 

Salary

The position is fixed term for a maximum of four-year period. The employment start date is flexible and will be determined together with the selected candidate. A six-month trial period is applied in the position.

The salary will be set on levels 2 – 4 of the national salary scale for the teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, supplementary remuneration will be paid for personal achievement and performance (max. 50 %). In practice, the salary is roughly 2400 – 2600 € (before taxes) per month for an early stage researcher, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and progress of the doctoral thesis.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 15.05.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. CV with contact information of at least two referees
2. Motivation letter with a short description of research merits and experience (max. 2 pages)
3. Diplomas/transcripts: Scanned copies of diplomas and transcripts of previous degrees. 
4. (optional) Short description of 3 selected refereed journal articles (co)authored (max 2 pages, with links to the articles)

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to a remote interview. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Professor Caglar Elbuken, caglar.elbuken(at)oulu(dot)fi.