Two Doctoral Researchers in Molecular Cancer Cell Biology and Genetics, Disease Networks Research Unit, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Applications are invited for two full-time

Doctoral researcher

positions for a maximum of four years, starting at the earliest on 01.01.2024 in a Biocenter Oulu research project "The ECM control of the prostate cancer genome" led by Professors Aki Manninen and Gong-Hong Wei at the Disease Networks Research Unit, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine.

Description of the Project

The aim of our project is to characterize the molecular mechanisms by which the tumor microenvironment regulates the genome organization and epigenetic status of prostate cancer (PCa) cells. A specific focus will be put on the role of α6β4-integrins in mediating mechanical regulation of chromatin organization in the nucleus. The function of super enhancer region harboring multiple PCa risk-associated genetic variants will be investigated in order to better understand how the region contributes to genomic regulation of PCa-promoting transcriptional programs.

The doctoral researchers will work together with our multinational team and will learn to utilize 3D cell culture models, prostate cancer patient-derived organoids, xenograft-mouse models, advanced microscopy techniques, viral CRISPR/Cas9-based genomic engineering as well as other molecular cell biology methods and functional genetics/genomics approaches.

What we offer?

• Exciting research project and excellent multidisciplinary research environment
• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team and broad scientific network where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close-ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have a HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• 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.

What we expect from you?

• A successful candidate is highly motivated and a curious mind
• You must possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent degree (e.g. licentiate) preferably in molecular cell biology, biochemistry and molecular medicine, genetics, functional genomics or similar. Degree must have been completed with good grades by 31.12.2023.
• All our researchers also teach. For Doctoral Researchers this typically means teaching/supervision in practical laboratory courses for undergraduates.
• Successful candidate is expected to be collaborative and have good communication skills. Ability to pursue independent research and to communicate and write in English is also expected. 

The selected candidates will carry out their doctoral studies in the Health and Biosciences Doctoral Programme of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS) and must meet the minimal requirements to receive doctoral study rights as defined in UniOGS requirements.  

Salary

The positions are fixed-term for maximum of 4 years as of 01.01.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 2300-2600 € per month (before taxes).

A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 01.11.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter shortly describing your motivation to apply for this position
   
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. Certificates/Diplomas
4. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Aki Manninen, email: aki.manninen(at)oulu.fi or Prof. Gong-Hong Wei, email: gonghong.wei(at)oulu.fi