Research As­sist­ant/​Doc­toral Re­searcher and Postdoc­toral Re­searcher

The groups of Research director Mart Saarma and Docent Maria Lindahl at the Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, at the University of Helsinki invite applications for the position of 1) a research assistant/doctoral researcher and 2) a post-doctoral researcher for a fixed term of 2 years starting June 1st, 2022, with a possibility for continuation.

The groups have previously identified a neurotrophic factor MANF, as a protective and regenerative factor for pancreatic beta cells (Lindahl et al, Cell Reports 2014, Hakonen et al., Diabetologia 2018). The groups received funding from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) for two projects aiming at studying the effect and safety of MANF and MANF mimetics in beta cell protection and regeneration in vitro and in vivo type 1 diabetes models.

We are looking for applicants with 1) a M.Sc. degree or comparable and 2) a PhD in biology, biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology, pharmacy or equivalent, and a keen interest in the research field of diabetes and diabetic mouse models. Successful candidates are expected to have experience in laboratory work; cell culture, cell biology, PCR techniques, protein biochemistry techniques. Competence to carry out procedures with laboratory mice is considered a benefit. Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team is required as well. Good written and verbal communication skills in English is also necessary.

Further degree requirement for doctoral researcher position: The appointee must apply, and obtain, the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the probationary period of 6 months: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/apply-doctoral-progr...

Further degree requirement for postdoctoral position: The degree requirement must be met by the beginning of the employment.

The work includes isolating Langerhans islets from mouse pancreases and testing regeneration-promoting effects of proteins and chemical compounds on islets in vitro and in vivo in type 1 diabetes mouse models.

The application should include:

• A motivation letter (max. 1 page), clearly stating why you consider yourself a good candidate for the position.
• CV including prior laboratory work/research experience and list of publications.
• One or more recommendation letters or names and contact information of reference

The salary is based on the salary system of the Finnish Universities for teaching and research staff for the doctoral and postdoctoral positions; research assistant position follows the salary system for specialist and support staff. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal work performance.
A trial period of 6 months will be applied.

Please, submit your application by May 10th, 2022, together with required attachments through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the “Apply for job” button. Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications through the SAP Fiori portal.

More information about the work carried out by the team can be found at: https://www2.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/neurotrophic-factors-and-rege... and questions can be addressed to [email protected] .

University of Helsinki

The University of Helsinki is the largest university in Finland and one of the leading multidisciplinary universities in the world. International experts working at the University are also attracted by Helsinki’s unique atmosphere and Nordic lifestyle. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and opportunities for professional development. Further information at www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers .

Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) supports high quality life science research across the University campuses and faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths and new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for researchers to solve grand challenges in health, food, and environment.

Institute of Biotechnology (BI) is an internationally renowned research institute with an inclusive and curiosity-driven working culture. Using cutting-edge infrastructures we advance breakthrough discoveries, technology development and innovations. https://www2.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-institute-of-biotechnology

Due date

10.05.2022 23:59 EEST