Postdoctoral researcher in structural biology of cell-cell contacts

University of Helsinki is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE is an independent research institute that supports high-quality life science research across University campuses and faculties. Institute of Biotechnology BI, a part of HiLIFE, is an internationally renowned research institute with an inclusive and curiosity-driven working culture. The research activities are carried out in research groups joined into three multidisciplinary research programs. The Institute hosts several shared research infrastructures, including cutting-edge facilities for cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), light microscopy, sequencing, and proteomics. For more information, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/hilife/bi.

The Laboratory of Structural Biology, headed by the Institute’s Director, Prof. Juha Huiskonen, is seeking a post-doctoral researcher holding a PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, or in a related field. In addition, the successful candidate will have a proven track record and research excellence in structural biology. Prior experience in membrane protein purification, cryo-EM, and/or tomography will be highly beneficial.

Your role is to carry out research on the structures and organization of proteins creating cell-cell contacts. We offer you a highly supportive, collaborative, and international research environment. Our research is aimed at understanding the structure and function of cellular macromolecular complexes and enveloped viruses. We apply a range of methods, including cryo-EM, advanced fluorescence microscopy methods, and correlative imaging. We are also active in developing computational methods for cryo-EM data processing. The working language of the laboratory is English. For more information, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/lsb.

The salary is defined in accordance with the University’s salary system for teaching and research personnel (ca. 3200¬–3600 euros/month, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience). The position is initially made for three years, with the possibility of renewal at the senior postdoctoral level. A trial period of six months will be applied. The position will be filled as soon as possible, or as agreed with the selected candidate.

University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of any gender, linguistic and cultural background, or minority group. The University offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, supported access to high-quality sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. For more information, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki.

The deadline for the applications is March 31, 2023, but candidates will be considered until the position is filled. Please contact Juha Huiskonen (juha.huiskonen(at)helsinki.fi) for more information about the position and to discuss the research plan in more detail.
To apply, please send (in a single PDF document) a cover letter describing your previous research achievements and motivation to apply, your detailed CV including a list of publications (highlighting the five most relevant ones with a brief summary explaining your own contribution), as well as contact information for at least two references (ideally including your PhD supervisor). Submit your application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the “Apply now" link below.