Postdoctoral Researcher at the Protein and Structural Biology Research Unit, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine

The North changes the world – more sustainable, more intelligent, more humane. We, at the University of Oulu work as a part of the international science community to produce new scientific information and science-based solutions. We are committed to educate future pioneers to build a more sustainable, intelligent and humane world. Creating new, taking responsibility and succeeding together are values that build a strong foundation for all our actions. We offer a working environment where individuals can cultivate their skills, do meaningful work, and develop professionally. Our university's several specialized research and service units enable extensive and diverse development and career opportunities for experts in various fields.

We are now looking for a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the research group of Rajaram Venkatesan in a project aiming to understand the structure and function of lipid transporting protein complexes in mycobacteria.

Description

Applications are invited for a full-time fixed-term postdoctoral researcher position in the research group of Rajaram Venkatesan in the Protein and Structural Biology Research Unit, at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine. The Venkatesan research group works on the structural and functional aspects of enzymes and protein complexes involved in lipid metabolism and transport in human and pathogenic organisms. The Faculty provides an excellent environment for doing cutting edge research in protein science and structural biology with access to state-of-the-art facilities located at Oulu, Finland, as well as across Europe. The research project concerns the study of mammalian-cell-entry (Mce) complexes from mycobacteria to understand the assembly, structure and function. The main tasks of the research project include but is not limited to the isolation and characterization of these Mce complexes from mycobacteria using a variety of biophysical and structural methods. The position is a fixed-term position for a period of two years. Besides research, the position also includes some teaching duties in the degree programs of the Faculty.

Qualification requirements

The successful candidate for the postdoctoral researcher position must possess a Doctoral degree in the field of protein science, structural biology, biochemistry, microbiology or related fields that is completed not more than ten years ago. The candidate should have a strong interest in structural, molecular and microbiology research. Previous demonstrated experience in handling membrane proteins, protein-protein interaction studies, (cryo) electron microscopy or microbiology techniques is considered a significant advantage. The selected candidate should be able to work independently as well as in a group with a drive to excel in research. Fluency in both written and spoken English is required. Most importantly, we expect the candidate to have a high motivation to conduct high-level biochemistry research.

What we offer

We offer a research environment with excellent technological facilities and a motivating and supporting international community at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu. We can also offer access to state-of-the-art facilities located at Oulu, Finland, as well as across Europe for doing cutting edge research in protein science and structural biology. We offer you a place in a highly talented research group, working to solve globally significant research problems. University´s wide variety of support services are at your disposal, allowing you to focus on research work. The position is fixed-term for 2 years starting at the earliest from 01.01.2022. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

Salary

The salary will be based on the demand level 5 of the salary system of Finnish Universities for teaching and research personnel. 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. 3500 € per month.

How to apply

Applications, together with all relevant enclosures, should be submitted using the electronic application form by November 30, 2021 (23:59 Finnish local time). The application should be written in English and include the following:

1)     A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why applicant is interested in this position. Also, information on personal research interests, experience and career plans are valuable to provide here.

2)     A complete Curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages) preferably in accordance with the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity http://www.tenk.fi/en/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae including a list of publications and contact information of at least two referees who may be asked to give a statement on the candidate.

Only applications containing all relevant appendices and submitted through the online recruitment system will be considered. Top candidates will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified when the selection process is completed.

Further information

For further information, informal enquires can be sent to Rajaram Venkatesan by E-mail ([email protected]) with a subject line “Regarding postdoctoral position”.

About Oulu, Finland

Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. The Oulu region is home to over 200 000 people making it the largest urban centre in the Nordics and one of the fastest growing regions in northern Finland. Oulu is a combination of beautiful, northern nature, vivid cultural life and modern technology. Oulu is also known for its highly-educated people and friendly, easy-going atmosphere. Living in Oulu is easy – everything is only max. 20 minutes away! Find out more about Oulu: https://www.oulu.fi/university/living-in-oulu