Postdoctoral researcher and PhD student in brain stem cell research
Helsinki University

The Neuroscience Center (NC, https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-life-science/units/neur…) is an international research unit within Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) of the University of Helsinki, a leading Nordic university with a strong commitment to life science research. NC aims at making fundamental discoveries about brain functions and especially translate research findings into improvements in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of psychiatric and neurological disorders. The research in NC spans across several scales from stem cell research and molecular neuroscience to systems and cognitive neuroscience in both animal and human models. The research groups of NC conduct research in neuroscience at the highest international level and actively apply the results for the benefit of the society. NC collaborates actively with other units of HiLIFE and faculties of the University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Central Hospital, and Neurocenter Finland.
Laboratories of Dr. Hiramani Dhungana and Professor Jari Koistinaho (https://www2.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-neuroscience-center/research/research…) at the University of Helsinki have an opening for
A POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER AND A PHD STUDENT
to work on a collaborative project at the Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki. The project focuses on the generation of immunocompetent cortical organoids from induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell lines derived from patients with various neurodegenerative diseases and aimed to gain insights into the cellular and molecular pathophysiologic mechanism underlying those diseases.
For the postdoctoral researcher position, we are looking for a candidate with a doctorate in neuroscience, bioscience, or a related field. The candidate should have strong experience in research on iPS cells and hands-on expertise with cellular and molecular biology techniques and in vivo experiments. In addition, experience working with brain organoids, electrophysiology, genetics, or bioinformatics is a plus.
For the Ph.D. student position, we are looking for a candidate with M.Sc. in bioscience or neuroscience and a strong background in cellular and molecular biology techniques. The candidate is expected to work with iPS cells to generate organoids and carry out pathophysiological studies under the condition of neuroinflammation both in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, the candidate should be willing to learn in vivo rodent surgeries and two-photon microscopy as it is an essential part of the project.
Funding and duration
The appointment for the postdoctoral researcher is funded by Business Finland and Sigrid Juselius Foundation for 2-3 year (negotiable) and will start as soon as the suitable candidate is identified.
The appointment for the Ph.D. position is funded by the Academy of Finland until December 2025.
The salaries will be based on the University salary system and depend upon the applicant’s level of prior experience and skillset. A trial period of 6 months will be applied.
How to apply
Please submit your application via the University of Helsinki Recruitment System by clicking the ‘Apply for the position’ button below. Internal applicants (i.e. current employees of the University of Helsinki) should submit their applications through the SAP HR portal. Applications should include (as a single PDF file):
• a motivation letter describing past and current research activities and future plans
• a CV (with a publication list for the postdoctoral position)
• names and email addresses of 2-3 academic contacts capable of providing a recommendation for the applicant
• Transcript and most recent academic achievements
The due date for the applications is 15.10.2021. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Informal inquiries are very welcome and should be sent to hiramani.dhungana (at) helsinki.fi or jari.koistinaho (at) helsinki.fi.
Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) is a new institute established in 2017 that 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. HiLIFE coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences and provides research-based interdisciplinary training.
The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities. The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.
Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see helsinki.fi/en/university/working-at-the-university.
Due date
15.10.2021 23:59 EEST