Doctoral Researcher, Molecular Medicine (Celiac Disease & Immunometabolism)

We are now seeking a highly motivated

Doctoral Researcher

to join the Intestinal Signaling and Epigenetics research group led by Associate Professor Keijo Viiri in the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine.

This position is part of the HEALTH-DIMENSIONS (Profi 8) research programme, a national profiling action funded by the Research Council of Finland. The programme focuses on "Multidimensional Big Data and Life-Course Health," with a specific emphasis on molecular-level mechanistic validation of diseases.

About the Job

Think of the human body as a complex computer system. Celiac disease is like a software glitch triggered by an external input (dietary gluten) that causes the hardware (the intestine) to malfunction. This research project acts as a system diagnostic—examining the “code” (functional epigenetics) and the “power supply” (metabolism) to identify a “patch” (targeted therapy) that restores the system to its normal state. Above all, this project champions discovery science—uncovering fundamental principles that transcend disease-specific boundaries and generate knowledge with transformative potential across diverse health challenges.

The successful candidate will contribute to an interdisciplinary research environment that bridges clinical data with fundamental molecular biology. The project aims to understand the root causes of intestinal damage and develop personalized treatment strategies for autoimmune conditions.

Key research themes include:

• Precision Immunotherapy: Dissecting molecular pathways driving Celiac Disease (CeD) and its refractory forms to unlock new therapeutic strategies.
• Advanced Disease Modelling: Using omics technologies and patient-derived as well as transgenic murine models to understand why some patients continue to experience symptoms despite standard treatments.
• Metabolism and Cell Health: Exploring how cellular metabolism and epigenetic gene regulation interact to maintain a healthy intestinal lining and how inflammatory responses disrupt this balance.
• Viral Factors: Examining how external triggers, such as viral infections, may predispose individuals to autoimmune responses.

What We Offer

• A supportive, multidisciplinary team where you can grow as an expert in molecular medicine and functional epigenetics.
• Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure, including organoid models and advanced sequencing technologies.
• 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?

To succeed in this position, we require:

• A Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Molecular Medicine, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or Health Sciences). The Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher's work.
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)
• Fluent oral and written English skills.
• A strong interest in autoimmunity, metabolism, and epigenetic gene regulation.

We also appreciate:

• Prior experience in cell culture, molecular biology techniques, imaging and animal models.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics or the analysis of large biological datasets.
• A proactive attitude and the ability to work in an international research environment.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for three years. Salary is based on levels 2–4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff at Finnish universities. In addition, a personal performance component will be paid, with a typical starting gross salary between €2,600 and €2,900 per month. A trial period of 6 months is applied for the position.

How to Apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 31.1.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter summarizing your research interests and suitability.
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity.
3. Certificates/Diplomas.
4. Contact information for two referees.

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 linguistic, cultural, or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Associate Professor Keijo Viiri, keijo.viiri@oulu.fi