Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Cell Biology for Next-Gen Molecular Sensing

Applications are invited for a full-time

Postdoctoral Researcher in Molecular Cell Biology

The position is for a maximum of three years, starting at the earliest on 01.04.2025 in a multidisciplinary project “Next Generation Molecular Sensing” combining the expertise of five teams at the University of Oulu. The project is a collective effort of five research groups led by Profs. Caglar Elbuken, Aki Manninen, Jian-An Huang, Seppo Vainio, and Simo Saarakkala. The PIs in the consortium are leading experts in their respective fields and have complementary expertise ranging from nanotechnology, biosensors, optics, microfluidics, molecular cell biology and organoid technology. The postdoctoral researcher will be mainly supervised by Prof. Aki Manninen with an aim to develop cellular models and molecular strategies to validate and establish novel biosensor technologies. The position is part of a multidisciplinary project that will assemble a team of four researchers that will work in collaboration.

Description of the Project

A multidisciplinary project that makes sense by modeling biology – our aim is to make every single molecule count

The main task of the hired researcher will be to develop novel biosensors by reconstituting biological signaling circuits in artificial engineered liposomes. This work involves protein engineering, production and reconstitution into lipid-enveloped vesicles. A good understanding of cellular signaling concepts is required. In addition to engineered liposome-based sensors, you will participate in testing and optimization of a minimally invasive single cell analysis platform. This nanotube-based novel technology utilizes ultrasensitive surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to monitor cellular signaling events in live cells. Your responsibility will be to develop cellular models to help to optimize the technology and to tune the specificity of the read-outs.

You will work together with our multinational team and will have access to advanced cell culture models including patient-derived organoids, advanced microscopy techniques, ample tools for viral CRISPR/Cas9-based genomic engineering as well as excellent facilities for molecular cell biology and protein biochemistry work.

What we offer?

• The support of 5 experienced, enthusiastic and well-established research groups, where you can grow as an expert.
• Outstanding research infrastructure such as advanced imaging and protein analysis/characterization at Biocenter Oulu Core Facilities, cleanroom and material analysis services
• Salary 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.
• 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 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 a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

What we expect from you?

• We are looking for ambitious, highly motivated candidates who have enthusiasm and ability to work hard both independently and as a member of a team to tackle challenging problems to achieve common goals.
• Doctoral degree in a relevant field.
• Documented experience in experimental research is required; previous experience in relevant methods of molecular cell biology and biochemistry of cellular signaling is strongly appreciated. Experience in academic writing 
• Ability to fluently communicate in English. Both spoken and written English skills are required.
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multinational environment 
• While your main task is research, we expect that all postdoctoral fellows contribute to teaching and supervision of undergraduates in practical laboratory courses (1-2 weeks per year) and participate in supervision of doctoral students/undergraduates in the laboratory.

Salary

The position is full-time and fixed-term for maximum of 3 years as of 01.04.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 3500-4300 € per month (before taxes) depending on qualifications and experience.  

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 22nd March 2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) (maximum 3 pages): Include contact information of at least two referees who can provide recommendations. Ensure the CV highlights relevant academic and professional experience, as well as any key skills related to the position.
2. Motivation Letter (maximum 2 pages): Provide a concise summary of your expertise and explain why you are motivated to apply for this position. Emphasize how your background aligns with the requirements and objectives of the role.
3. Optional: Selected Publications (maximum of 3): Submit up to three copies of your refereed journal articles that are relevant to the position.
4. List of Publications: Provide a complete list of your publications (peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and other scholarly work) following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 
5. Certificate of Doctoral Degree: Include a copy of your doctoral degree certificate 

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, genders, and lingual, cultural, or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Aki Manninen, email: aki.manninen(at)oulu.fi