Doctoral Researcher / Project Researcher in chemistry/molecular biology

The University of Turku is a world-class multidisciplinary research university which offers interesting challenges and a unique vantage point to national and international research

We are seeking a PhD student to join our new research group to work on the development of analytical methodologies for the isolation and characterisation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and how they can act as long-range signalling molecules in vivo. The main focus will be on the characterisation of these particles via analytical chemistry techniques and characterising them with molecular biology techniques. The position will be located at the Department of Chemistry, in Turku Centre for Chemical and Molecular Analytics (CCMA ) group led by Dr Alex Dickens . Close cooperation will be done with Turku Bioscience Centre.

Key tasks and responsibilities
Establish key animal models for the study of how the EVs can act as long-range communication in brain disease. Development of ultrasensitive mass spectrometry assays for metabolite measures from EVs. Use of NMR to develop sizing methodology using diffusion NMR sequences. The candidate will also need to be able to develop novel chromatographic methodologies for the high throughput isolations of EVs. We also expect documentation, reporting and preparation of publications.

Essential qualifications

• A relevant master’s degree in chemistry or biology or a related field
• License to work on laboratory animals
• Knowledge of at least one of the following programming languages: R, Python, Matlab
• High level of motivation, self-initiative and independency
• Good knowledge of written and spoken English

Previous experience with either LC-MS or NMR spectroscopy is considered as an advantage.

The qualification requirements of the position are stated the University of Turku Rules of Procedure (The doctoral researcher will replace the title of the doctoral candidate that was previously in use as of 1 August 2022). In the case the selected candidate does not yet have the right to study for a doctoral degree at the University of Turku, the title of Project Researcher will be used at first, and the study right for a doctoral degree should be applied in the next possible call (spring 2023): University of Turku Graduate School (UTUGS) and Doctoral Programmes .

Salary
Our selection criteria is based on the principle of finding the most qualified and suitable candidate for the work. In practice, this means that not only education, publications and working experience but also personal qualities, communication and motivation factors and other relevant criteria will be taken into account.

The salary is determined by the collective agreement system of Finnish universities and will depend on the degree and qualifications of the applicant.  Salaried positions in Finland automatically include payments to a pension fund, unemployment funds, an extensive occupational healthcare, affordable sports services and even a holiday allowance. The position belongs to the personnel group of teaching and research personnel. Salary will be determined in a contract. The salary will be - depending on competence and experience - in average 2230 – 2500 eur/month.

There is a trial period of six (6) months.

Duration of contract
The start of employments is negotiable, preferably in January 2023. The position is fixed-term for 24 months, with a possibility for an eventual extension.

What to do next
Please submit your application by the online application system latest on 22.11.2022. Electronic link for the system is at the beginning of this job advertisement (Fill the form). You can find advertisements here .

In addition, applications must have the following enclosures (in English):

1) motivation letter max 1 page focusing on your strengths related to our research topics
2) CV
3) copy of certificates of degree
4) contact details for at least three referees (name, working place, e-mail address)
5) a list of publications, highlighting the five most relevant ones

For further information on the content of the position, please contact Alex Dickens, alex.dickens(at)utu.fi

About us
The Department of Chemistry has recently moved into a brand new purpose built building which provides a collaborative hub for Chemistry in the Turku campus. The Turku Centre for Chemical and Molecular Analytics (CCMA) currently houses 5 modern NMR instruments and 4 mass spectrometers and provides analytical chemistry services to a broad user base.

Turku Bioscience Centre is an advanced core facility and research centre hosted jointly by University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University. We offer access to a comprehensive selection of cutting-edge research methods and an opportunity to be involved in internationally competitive science in a stimulating, highly networked environment. We are a truly international community, with more than half of the personnel having an international background.

Working in Finland
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