Open Positions

Postdoctoral researcher to study T-cell response in cancer and autoimmunity DL 25 March

Our research groups led by Professor Riitta Lahesmaa (https://bioscience.fi/research/molecular-systems-immunology/profile/) and Professor Laura Elo (https://elolab.utu.fi/) are based at Turku Bioscience Centre (the Centre), BioCity Turku, Turku, Finland. 

Job description

We are seeking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher to work on discovery of novel molecules that regulate T-cell responses in cancer and autoimmunity.  
The intricate balance of immune responses is pivotal for maintaining health, and disruption in this balance can lead to various immune disorders, including autoimmune diseases and cancer. Regulatory T-cells (Tregs) are central to the regulation of immune responses and for maintaining immune homeostasis. Our ambition is to find new means to modulate T-cell responses and identify patients suitable for such innovative therapeutic approaches in the future. A range of methods including single-cell genomics and computational tools will be used to address the questions. 

Apply between 11 February 2025 and 25 March 2025 16:00 (Europe/Helsinki) by following this link>>

Who we are looking for

  • A relevant doctoral degree; e.g. bioinformatics, biostatistics, immunology, life sciences, biomedicine
  • High level of motivation, self-initiative and independency
  • Excellent team work and communication skills
  • Excellent language skills in English (both oral and written)
  • First-rate immunology  knowledge and proficient understanding of bioinformatics tools
  • Good programming skills (e.g. R, Python)
  • Strong publication record in international journals at least in one of the following areas: immunology, single-cell omics, computational biology

The qualification requirements of the positions are stated in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure.

Benefits

We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.

Please read more about University of Turku as an employee from our Come work with us! pages.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research logo. The logo is a token of the University’s commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers. 

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:

Salary and trial period

The salary is determined by the collective agreement system of the Finnish universities. These positions belong to our research personnel and the salary will be as follows:  a Postdoctoral Researcher  3500 – 3800 eur/month in average.

The position starts on April 1st, 2025 or as agreed. The position is initially for two years, with an optional extension. There is a trial period of six months.

How to apply

Please submit your application only through our online recruitment system. Please write your application and accompanying documents in English.

Applicants should enclose with their application:

  • CV
  • publication list
  • list of selected publications
  • degree certificate(s) / a transcript of records in Finnish or in English
  • contact information of three referees ( name, title,organisation, e-mail, phone number)

Further information

For further information please contact: Prof. Riitta Lahesmaa, e-mail: riitta.lahesmaa (at)utu.fi or Prof. Laura Elo, e-mail: laura.elo (at) utu.fi. Enquiries on the application procedure may be directed to HR Specialist Paula Luoma paula.luoma(at)utu.fi

Click here to apply for the position

Project Engineer for Flow Cytometry, permanent employment contract DL 27 March

As a member of our research service unit, the project engineer will play a key role in advancing innovative research across multiple departments. This role includes hands-on operation, maintenance, and quality control of advanced flow cytometers and cell sorters, alongside offering essential support to researchers through precise cell sorting and guidance in experimental design. This is a new position and the person will have a permanent employment contract (trial period of 6 months).

Job description

  • Operate flow cytometry equipment.
  • Performs routine maintenance of equipment and associated supplies, provides accurate quotes for services provided.
  • Assists users of the facility in experimental design, instrument set up, data acquisition and analysis
  • Communicates with the users of the facility regarding their specific research project needs, troubleshoots technical aspects related to equipment or experimental design associated with the research projects.
  • Stay current on new technologies and advancements in flow cytometry
  • Undertake additional responsibilities as required by Cytometry Unit leadership

Apply between 20 February 2025 and 27 March 2025 16:00 (Europe/Helsinki) via following this link>>

Who we are looking for

  • Master’s degree in medical, biology, or related field
  • Minimum of one year of hands-on experience working with flow cytometry equipment
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment
  • Strong communication skills
  • Fluent in spoken and written English language
  • Customer service oriented

Preferred Skills & Competencies:

  • Attention to detail and a strong capacity for troubleshooting
  • Demonstrated commitment to high standards, efficiency, and a collaborative work ethic
  • Experience working with mass cytometry

The ideal candidate will contribute meaningfully to our research environment by providing reliable, high-quality flow cytometry services and supporting the growth and innovation within our facility.

Our selection criteria are based on finding the most qualified and suitable applicant. In practice, this means that in addition to education and work experience, individual characteristics, motivation, communication and language skills, and other relevant criteria are considered. The position will be filled immediately upon finding a suitable candidate.

Benefits

  • Scientific excellence
  • A dynamic and supportive research environment in a growing team
  • Exciting career opportunities and the chance to influence your own work
  • International research collaboration and networking opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance
  • A work culture that emphasizes equality and accessibility
  • Diverse training and skill development opportunities

Salary and Employment Duration:

The work starts on April 1, 2025, or as agreed. The position includes a six (6) month probationary period. The salary is determined based on the Finnish universities’ collective agreement, and the job demand category will be level 8. The position belongs to our other expert and support personnel, and the salary is approximately €2900 – €3200 per month, depending on previous experience and skills.

The application must include the following documents:

  1. A motivation letter that includes a presentation of your skills based on the requirements mentioned in this announcement (max 1 page).
  2. A resume (max 2 pages).
  3. Copies of degree certificates. If the certificate is not in Finnish or English, an official English translation is required.
  4. Contact information for at least one referee (name, workplace, and email address).

For more information about the job, please contact our Cytometry Unit Manager Pia Rantakari at pia.rantakari(at)utu.fi. For recruitement process and our recruitement tool Talent Adore, our HR specialist Paula Luoma can assist you at paula.luoma(at)utu.fi.

Click here to apply for the position

Other opportunities

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