Doctoral Researcher in Biosensors, Microfluidics and Artificial Cells, FBMM

We are now looking for a

Doctoral Researcher

to join our multidisciplinary project on "Next Generation Molecular Sensing" combining the expertise of multiple research groups 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 Principal Investigators (PIs) in the consortium are leading experts in their respective fields and have complementary expertise ranging from biosensors, microfluidics, nanotechnology, optics, molecular cell biology, organoid technology, and machine learning methods.

This position will be a four year position, starting at the earliest on 1 April 2025, that will be mainly supervised by Prof. Caglar Elbuken and aims the development of artificial cell based biosensors as a novel single molecule biosensing methodology. The position is part of a multidisciplinary project that will assemble a team of four researchers that will work in collaboration. 

About the job

This position is financially supported from our Next Generation Molecular Sensing (NGSens) project aiming to develop novel biosensor technologies. Specifically, we are interested in using microfluidically generated artificial cells as novel biosensing agents. We sythesize giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) at high throughput and high purity using microdroplet systems. The GUVs can incorporate membrane proteins and transducer mechanisms to be designed specifically for a given analyte. The project aims to develop this system as an ultra-sensitive biosensor mimicking cellular detection mechanisms. Support will be provided by structural biology, extracellular vesicle and optics experts to develop the artificial cell based sensors. 

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 characterization center, 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?

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

• Master's degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, biophysics or similar 
• Expertise on microfluidic system design, fabrication and experimentation 
• Fluency in written and spoken English. Excellent communication and teamwork skills 
• Experience in academic writing 
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multinational environment 
• Ability to work hard both independently and as a team member to tackle complex problems
• While your main task is research, we expect that all doctoral researchers can be requested to contribute for teaching and supervision of undergraduates. 
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate

• Hands-on expertise on droplet microfluidic systems (optional) 
• Experience on artifical cells or liposome synthesis (optional)

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 01 April 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. 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. 2500-2700€ 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 22 March 2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. CV (max 3 pages) including contact information of two persons available for recommendation
2. Motivation letter summarizing expertise and research interests (max 2 pages) 
3. Diplomas: Scanned copies of diplomas including undergraduate transcript 
4. (optional) A maximum of 3 selected publications (refereed journal articles) related to the position 

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. Caglar Elbuken (caglar.elbuken@oulu.fi).