Doctoral Researcher in Biochemistry, Molecular Enzymology and Protein Folding - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for

Two Doctoral researchers 

to join us in the Protein Folding Research Group in the Protein and Structural Biology Research Unit at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu.

Protein and Structural Biology is one of three focus areas of the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. The faculty provides a dynamic research surrounding and cutting-edge research infrastructure services. It has about 190 employees (including doctoral researchers) of which about half are from outside Finland.

The Research Unit consists of 7 research groups all working in the field of Protein and Structural Biology. The unit is well equipped and hosts 3 nodes of national infrastructure in Structural Biology, Proteomics and Biophysical Analysis of Proteins and in Biocomputing. The research group currently consists of 4 postdoctoral researchers, 6 doctoral researchers (PhD students) and a technician and group members come from 9 different countries. The working language of the group, unit and faculty is English.

About the job

The two four-year positions are connected with the molecular enzymology of novel catalysts of structural disulfide bond formation from disease causing organisms. The overall goal of the project is to identify and characterize novel targets for drug treatment. As part of the work:

• You will express and purify novel protein folding catalysts
• You will determine their structure in isolation or in complexes
• You will undertake detailed biophysical analysis of the enzymes, including their ability to catalyze protein folding in vitro and in synthetic systems in vivo
• Where possible you will examine the physiological consequences of KO of the protein on the organism, including its ability to cause disease
• Your responsibilities will include teaching undergraduate practical classes for 2 weeks each year
• You will be part of a multidisciplinary research group with current funding from EU, NIH and the Research Council of Finland

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of 12 people 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 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.

Who are you?

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

• Master's degree in the field of biochemistry, molecular biology or a closely related field. Applicants currently in the final stages of their masters degree e.g. in their MSc project are welcome to apply, but the masters degree must be awarded before the position starts
• Fluent written and spoken English
• Good IT and communication skills 
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).

We also appreciate

• Experience in molecular biology, protein expression and purification, structural and biophysical characterization of proteins, and bioinformatics
• Experience in or detailed knowledge of protein folding  

The positions are for Early-Stage Researchers, defined as a researcher in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research activity. The selected candidate will carry out their doctoral studies in the Health and Biosciences doctoral programme of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).

Salary

The position is fixed-term from 01.01.2024 to 31.12.2027. The selected applicant may start after the start date, but the length of the position is not correspondingly extended.

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 08.11.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter
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 a 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 Lloyd Ruddock, Protein and Structural Biology research Unit, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine; lloyd.ruddock@oulu.fi