Postdoctoral Researcher in Colorectal Cancer Precision Medicine/Bioinformatics

We are now looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher

to join our Colorectal Cancer Research Group within the Translational Medicine Research Unit at the Faculty of Medicine of University of Oulu.

The Faculty of Medicine is an integral part of the Kontinkangas Life Sciences Campus, located adjacent to Oulu University Hospital. This dynamic environment offers a unique collaboration between research, education, health services, and business, fostering innovation and excellence in medical sciences.

About the job

Colorectal cancer, the third most common cancer, is a highly heterogeneous disease at both molecular and morphological levels. Its progression is shaped by complex interactions between tumor cells and the surrounding stromal and immune cells. Our research group focuses on three key areas:

1. Identifying the factors that drive colorectal cancer heterogeneity.
2. Uncovering the role of tumor-host interactions in disease progression.
3. Developing novel biomarkers to advance precision medicine.

As a postdoctoral researcher in our group, you will participate in the analysis of large colorectal cancer cohorts. You will apply bioinformatics analyses and data analysis methods to analyze multidimensional data, including

• Spatial transcriptomics
• Multiplex immunohistochemistry
• Multiplex in situ hybridization
• Bulk DNA/RNA sequencing
• Single cell RNA sequencing
• Multiplexed serum biomarker measurements

Through your research, you will help uncover molecular variations that drive tumor phenotypes in colorectal cancer. The findings of this project have potential to refine future tumor classification systems, support the development of novel biomarkers, and enable more personalized treatment approaches.

What we offer?

• Engaging research projects: Work on cutting-edge studies in colorectal cancer, utilizing advanced tissue analysis methods such as spatial transcriptomics, multiplex immunohistochemistry, and in situ hybridization, alongside sequencing-based molecular pathology techniques and multiplexed serum biomarker analyses.
• A Collaborative and Dynamic Environment: Join a productive research team that fosters collaboration, creativity, and knowledge sharing across various scientific domains.
• Personal and Professional Growth: Opportunities to develop and refine your expertise in bioinformatics, molecular biology, and data analysis, enhancing your career prospects in academia and industry.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a supportive and flexible work culture that promotes well-being and a healthy work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have an 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, an excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you: 

• Doctoral degree in biochemistry, biomedicine, bioinformatics, cell biology, computer science, data analysis, genetics, medicine, molecular biology, molecular genetics, or related fields. The degree must be obtained no more than 10 years ago
• Experience in conducting bioinformatic analyses using R and/or Python
• Strong motivation to learn and apply new research methods relevant to the project
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, along with the ability for independent scientific work
• Proficiency in written and spoken English

We also appreciate

• Background knowledge in cancer biology
• Experience with spatial transcriptomics, single cell RNA sequencing, bulk DNA/RNA sequencing, and/or multiplex immunohistochemistry data analysis

Salary

This is a fixed-term position for two years. The expected start date is March 1^st, 2025, or no later than August 1^st, 2025.

The salary will be based on the levels 5-6 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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3600-4200 € per month (before taxes).  

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by February 17^th, 2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
2. Cover letter
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 
4. Certificates/Diplomas
5. Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation
6. Other possible attachments

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.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders, and members of different languages, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Dr. Juha Väyrynen (juha.vayrynen@oulu.fi).