Doctoral Researcher, for project examining central nervous system immunity in viral encephalitis,...

The University of Oulu is part of the international scientific community producing new scientific knowledge and science-based solutions related to problems of society. The University of Oulu is committed to educate future pioneers for building a more sustainable, intelligent and humane world. Creating new knowledge, 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. The specialized research and service units of the University of Oulu enable extensive and diverse development and career opportunities for experts in various fields. Doctoral researchers in the University of Oulu are part of an international, multidisciplinary scientific community. Doctoral training is coordinated by the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).

University of Oulu has allocated twenty (20) 4-year doctoral researcher positions to the emerging research themes in association with the four focus institutes Biocenter Oulu , Eudaimonia Institute , Infotech Oulu and Kvantum Institute . The Emerging projects in the strategic focus areas will connect multidisciplinary research across disciplines with the spearhead projects of the University of Oulu.  

We are now looking for a

Doctoral Researcher

for a maximum of four years, starting at the earliest on 01.01.2023 in a research project of Docent/Adjunct Professor Pirjo Åström in the Research Unit of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine. The applied position is under the Emerging projects programme 2023-2026 within the context of Biocenter Oulu , which offers a high-level international multidisciplinary environment supplied with cutting-edge infrastructures in the strategic focus area Lifelong health .

Our research aims to identify novel mechanisms of immunological disorders. We work in close collaboration with expert clinicians at the Oulu University Hospital and utilize unique, genetically isolated Finnish population to identify novel gene variants leading to dysfunctional immunity. Some gene variants make the individual more prone to infections and may lead to devastating conditions such as viral encephalitis. Such patients, with novel gene variants, provide us with invaluable hints for the biological mechanisms involved in the disease process. In our research, we use human tissue samples and versatile in vitro methodology to study the function of immune system.

The position is supervised by Dr. Pirjo Åström and the project’s focus is on identifying novel defense mechanisms of central nervous system (CNS) in viral infection. Eventually, we hope to provide targets for development of novel treatment modalities. Knowledge on neuroimmunology is essential to be prepared for current and future viral threats. Moreover, as neuroinflammation plays a role in various CNS disorders, we may identify mechanisms that, in addition to viral encephalitis, apply for other diseases as well. More information about our research is found on principal investigator’s researcher profile: https://www.oulu.fi/en/researchers/pirjo-astrom .

Requirements

You must hold a Master’s degree or an equivalent degree (e.g. licentiate) preferably in biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, microbiology, or medicine (or equivalent). We are looking for highly motivated candidate with strong interest in molecular biology and disease mechanisms. A successful candidate has good communication and interpersonal skills. Previous experience in hands-on molecular biology laboratory work and research on immunology is a plus. Degree must have been completed with good grades (at least 60% of maximum grade, or 3/5, in both the taught studies and the Master’s thesis). Ability to pursue independent research and excellent writing and fluency in English is expected.

The doctoral researcher position is intended for an Early Stage Researcher (ESR) who, according to the ”European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers”, is defined as a researcher in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their research activity, including the period of research training. Applicants will either be starting their doctoral training or have completed no more than two full years of training (adjusted for possible previous part-time status) at the time the position is filled. You will carry out your doctoral studies in the Health and Biosciences doctoral programme of the University of Oulu Graduate School (or one of the other UniOGS Doctoral Programmes, if appropriate) and you must meet the minimal requirements to receive doctoral study rights as defined in UniOGS .

What we offer

• We offer you a place in a highly talented research group, working to solve globally significant research problems in the field of immunology.
• University´s wide variety of support services are at your disposal, allowing you to focus on your studies and research.
• In addition to modern research facilities, we offer you personnel benefits such as free occupational healthcare, support for sport services and endless opportunities to develop your skills and competences.
• Regular salary is paid 12 months per year, including paid leave and an additional holiday bonus in the summer.
• The employed person will be insured by the university and provided occupational healthcare. The Finnish government provides benefits to residents and their families, for example possibility to the national healthcare system and high-quality affordable childcare and school services.

Salary and key terms

The salary of selected doctoral researchers will be initially set on level 2, and later on levels 2 – 4 of the national salary scale for the teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a supplementary remuneration is given for personal achievement and performance (max. 50 %). In practice, the salary is roughly 2200 – 2700 € (before taxes) per month for an early-stage researcher, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and progress of the doctoral thesis.

The positions are fixed term for maximum of four years starting earliest on 1st of January 2023. A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted through the online system by 6 November 2022, 23:59 (Finnish local time), with the following attachments as three separate pdf files (please note that the online system has a maximum size limit of attachments):

Applications sent by email will not be considered.The eligible applicants fitting best in the research profile expected for the position may be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified when the selection process is completed.

For further information

-      Docent/Adjunct Professor Pirjo Åström, e-mail: pirjo.astrom (at) oulu.fi

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