Doctoral Researcher in Machine Learning of Biosensing

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

Applications are invited for a full-time

Doctoral Researcher in Machine Learning of Biosensing

position for three years 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 Professors 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 nanotechnology, biosensors, optics, microfluidics, molecular cell biology, organoid technology, and machine learning methods.

Professor Simo Saarakkala will be the primary supervisor for developing targeted machine learning-based data analysis methods for novel biosensing methods, but the doctoral researcher is expected to actively interact and get feedback from all the PIs of the project. The research teams come from two faculties (the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine), but they are all located in close proximity to each other in the same building.

Description of the Project

The main task of the doctoral researcher will be to develop novel and targeted data analysis for biosensing methods investigated in this project. One of the primary biosensing method in this project will focus on cutting-edge surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) biosensing with ultrahigh sensitivity up to single-molecule level based on plasmonic nanostructures. In the project, you will gain access to this novel and unique biosensing data for which you are expected to develop the most suitable and targeted data analysis methods and concepts.

The doctoral researcher will be enrolled in the Health and Bioscience Doctoral Programme of the University of Oulu Graduate school, which provides support in theoretical and practical training. We provide access to state-of-the-art micro- and nanofabrication facilities, characterization facilities, biological facilities, as well as the European Union’s best computational facilities.

What we offer?

• Exciting research project and exceptional multidisciplinary research environment
• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team and broad scientific network where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert
• Development and career options of the large organization. Your home Research Unit (i.e., Department) will be Research Unit of Health Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, which has more than 160 staff members and is highly international (~40% staff members are international).
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits.
• 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.

What we expect from you?

We are looking for an ambitious, highly motivated candidate who has enthusiasm and the ability to work hard, both independently and as a team member to tackle challenging problems to achieve common goals.

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Medical Physics, Biophysics, or other related field.
• Strong background in machine learning with proficiency in multiple machine learning methods, including deep learning. If you have only studied machine learning methods as part of your B.Sc. or M.Sc. degree, but not used those methods in any real-world applications after your graduation, this expertise is not adequate for this position.
• Excellent programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar languages.
• Previous experience with Raman spectroscopy or other biosensing techniques is considered as an advantage.
• Ability to fluently communicate in English. Both spoken and written English skills are required.
• While your main task is research, we expect that all doctoral researchers can be requested to contribute for teaching and supervision of undergraduates.

Salary

The position is fixed term for three years, starting from August 1^st, 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). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2500 € per month (before taxes) depending on qualifications and experience.

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by March 31^st, 2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter shortly describing your motivation to apply for this position
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland.
4. Certificates/Diplomas
5. 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.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Simo Saarakkala, email: simo.saarakkala(at)oulu.fi