Doctoral Researcher, Molecular Biology in Medicine

We are now looking for a

Doctoral Researcher

to join our Pediatric Neurology Group in the Clinical Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu. We have a solid background in studying genetic causes and molecular mechanisms behind severe neurological multiorgan disorders in children using in vivo and in vitro disease models. The research laboratory is located at the Clinical Research Center (CRC) and maintained by Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu.

About the job

The position is part of the research project “Defects of centriolar HYLS1 protein: in vivo outcomes in development and disease” funded by the Research Council of Finland (2025-2029).

Your role will involve the generation (CRISPR-Cas9) and analysis of gene-modified cell culture models. In addition, you will utilize animal models of ciliopathy gene HYLS1 to study embryonic development and metabolism. You will be involved in establishing new technologies that are needed to study the molecular defects caused by HYLS1 dysfunction.

You will work in a research team, manage project-related tasks, and disseminate research findings in leading international scientific journals. The position is fixed-term for three years. The starting date of the position is on November 1st, 2025, or as soon as possible after that. A six-month trial period will be effective at the beginning of the contract. The doctoral researcher will apply for admission to the University of Oulu Graduate School at the beginning of the project.

What we offer

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic community where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert. 
• 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 your 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.

Who are you?

You are expected to have the ability to pursue independent research, work productively in a team of various backgrounds, and potentially supervise undergraduate students.

Specifically, you must have:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (biochemistry, biology, molecular biology, or other).
• You must meet all the requirements to receive doctoral study rights as defined in the UniOGS's webpages .
• You should have achieved a good grade in the degree (3/5, or at least 60% of the maximum grade, in both coursework and master's thesis).

Additional skills appreciated when assessing the applicant’s qualifications include:

• Prior experience in working with cell culture models
• Prior experience in working with animal models
• Fluent oral and written English skills as well as good organizing, communication, and teamwork skills

Salary

The successful candidate will be employed at the University of Oulu. The salary will be based on levels 2–4 of the demand level chart for Finnish universities' university-level teaching and research staff. 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 approximately €2600 – 2900 per month, depending on the qualifications.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 14.9.2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter (max. 2 pages), which should include an introduction of yourself and your academic background including description of your prior experience in working with cell culture and animal models, and a description of your research interests and motivation towards doctoral studies.
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity  (max. 3 pages)
3. Certificates and transcripts of records: Scanned electronic copies of all pages of a) diplomas, b) transcripts of the records of relevant previous degrees and c) certificates relevant to the animal experimentation, if available. If the original documents are not in Finnish, Swedish or English, each document must be accompanied by an official certified translation into Finnish or English. 
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.

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 Professor Reetta Hinttala, reetta.hinttala@oulu.fi