Postdoctoral Researcher For A Business Finland Funded Life Science Research Project

A unique opportunity at the interface of Science Research Innovation & Business Development

We are seeking a full-time postdoctoral scientist for a Business Finland funded life science research project led by Dr. Sarah O'Keefe and Dr. Brendan Battersby at the Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland.  The research project capitalises upon innovative technology to enhance recombinant protein synthesis in mammalian cells and to consolidate this research into a start-up biotechnology spin-out company.

Project Description

MITOGUARDER is a 2-year life science research project to commercialise our invention for enhanced recombinant protein production.  As part of our scientific team, your  research will contribute to the securement of intellectual property rights protections and facilitate evaluation of our innovative recombinant protein platform by 16 academic project partners across Europe and the US.  You will engage with our wider team of commercialisation experts (our Commercial Champion and Helsinki Innovation Services) and our 5-member Advisory Board, gaining valuable experience in all aspects of research innovation, start-up formation and business development. 

What we offer

• A fixed term 2-year position with possible extension. 
• A collaborative, innovative and inclusive group of international scientists and business experts at the leading edge of protein synthesis technology and start-up company formation. 
• Cutting edge scientific and commercialisation infrastructure and technical resources.
• Unique professional and personal development opportunities (science and commercialisation).
• Rewarding long-term opportunities to join the spin-out company as a founding member to bring innovative life science technology to the market for financial gain and societal impact.
• Competitive Business Finland funded salary depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience, 5-7 weeks of annual holiday leave, flexible hours (1612 hours/year).
• Financial support for relocation costs along with Finnish visa and residency permits. 
• Occupational health care and access to high-quality sports facilities.

About you

• You are ambitious, collegial and excited to pursue life science research with commercial impact.  
• You should have a PhD, or be in the final stages of PhD submission, in cell biology, protein biochemistry or molecular biology with strong communication skills and a desire to innovate.
• Knowhow in cellular protein synthesis and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing is an advantage. 

About the Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki
The Institute of Biotechnology is an independent research institute within the University of Helsinki Institute of Life Science, at the University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland, and at the global forefront of life science research with state-of-the-art research core facilities in genomics, biological imaging and structural biology.  According to the 2024 Times Higher Education World University survey, the University of Helsinki is ranked among the top 80 universities worldwide in life science research.

How to apply?

Submit your application by clicking on the “Apply" link by 5 February 2024.  Please note that your application should include a cover letter, CV, and contact details of three references.  For further information on the position, please contact Dr Sarah O'Keefe([email protected] ) and Dr Brendan J Battersby ([email protected] ).