Postdoctoral Researcher, Intervertebral Disc Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine

We are now looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher in Intervertebral Disc Experimental Therapeutics

to join us in the research group of Professor Ali Mobasheri in the Research Unit of Health Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Medicine.

About the job

The Research Council of Finland project “Translation from laboratory to the clinic: nanotechnology, senolytics, cell and gene therapy applied for the treatment of low back pain” is an interdisciplinary project focused on the formulation and testing of experimental therapeutics for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain, including nanotechnology, senolytics, and cell-based gene therapy. This project will establish a translational large animal model of intervertebral disc degeneration to test novel therapeutics for back pain. The main objective of the project is to specifically target the cartilaginous components in the discovertebral junction.

What we offer?

• A highly talented research group supported by an excellent network of collaborators in Finland and abroad.
• A research environment with excellent technological facilities and a motivating and supporting international community at the Faculty of Medicine and Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu.
• 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. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• 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?

You must possess a Doctoral degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or another topic related to intervertebral disc degeneration research. The degree must be obtained no more than 10 years ago. Also, candidates completing their Doctoral degree in spring 2025 will be considered.

You should have strong laboratory skills in cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Experience of working with gene and cell therapy models, mammalian cell and tissue culture, animal models, and the intervertebral disc is considered an advantage.

We are looking for candidates with high motivation and the ability to work independently, as well as in a group. Fluency in both written and spoken English is a prerequisite. The potential to acquire supplementary funding and experience in the supervision of Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral thesis or other teaching experience will be considered as merits.

Salary

The position is fixed-term from 1.8.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter until 31.8.2026.

The salary will be based on levels 5 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. 3600-4000 € per month (before taxes). For candidates completing their Doctoral degree in spring 2025, the salary will be based on the lower demand level chart until finishing the degree.

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 30.4.2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter
2. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland
4. Certificates/Diplomas
5. Contact information of 2 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 different backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders and members of different language, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Project Manager Maija Risteli (maija.risteli@oulu.fi).