We are looking for a highly motivated Doctoral Researcher or Postdoctoral Researcher to join a project that explores the mechanisms of RNA regulation in male germ cells in the research group of Professor Noora Kotaja at the Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit (https://www.utu.fi/en/university/faculty-of-medicine/institute-of-biomedicine/research). The position is fixed-term from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2028 (starting date can be agreed).

The research in the Kotaja lab (https://kotajalab.utu.fi/) focuses on the mechanisms of RNA regulation during male germ cell differentiation, and their implications on male fertility and on RNA-mediated paternal epigenetic inheritance of acquired conditions such as metabolic disorders. We are mainly using mouse as a model, but also collaborating with human cohort studies to translate our results to human health. The methods include a wide range of histological, bioimaging and molecular biology methods and high throughput small-RNAseq and RNAseq.

The Institute of Biomedicine has strong expertise in mouse modeling and pre-clinical research, and it recognizes endocrine and reproductive medicine as main research fields. The core facilities of the Turku Bioscience (https://bioscience.fi/) offer state-of-the-art technologies for research.

Who we are looking for

The position requires a suitable degree (Master’s degree or PhD degree) in biosciences and experience in biomedical research methods and working in a research group. The experience in the field of RNA biology (RNA regulation and RNA-mediated functions) and related methods is considered as a strength. Excellent capacity for scientific thinking and high motivation to perform top quality international research are an advantage. Good communication skills in English, both oral and written, and collaboration skills are required.

In case the selected candidate for the position of a Doctoral Researcher 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 suitable call. How to Apply for Doctoral Training | University of Turku.

The eligibility requirements for the positions are specified in the University of Turku’s regulations.

We value equality and diversity in our working community and encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Benefits

We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.

Please read more about University of Turku as an employee from our Come work with us! pages.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research logo. The logo is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers.

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:

Salary and trial period

The salaries are determined in accordance with the university salary system for teaching and research personnel. For a postdoctoral researcher the salary will be in the beginning of the employment around 3500–4000 euros/month, and for a doctoral researcher/project researcher around 2440–2600 euros/month, depending on previous experience and skills. Salary is negotiated when the employment contract is prepared and it is influenced by previous experience and skills. The position has a six (6) month trial period.

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 22 November 2024 at 16.00 (EEST GMT+3 / at 13:00 UTC).

Applicants should enclose with their application:

motivation letter
CV
list of publications
relevant degree certificate(s)
contact information of 2-3 referees
other documents that may influence the filling of the position.

Further information

For further information about the position, please contact Professor Noora Kotaja noora.kotaja(at)utu.fi

In case you need help with the application process, please turn to HR Secretary Kati Rantanen, kati.rantanen(at)utu.fi, +358 50 400 6179.

Institute of Biomedicine

Research at the Institute of Biomedicine is divided into three functional units: Infection and Immunity, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, and Cancer research. Research at our Institute includes both biomedical basic research and translational research, and the unit division expresses our research priorities.

The Faculty of Medicine is a high level, international and innovative research and education unit in biomedicine, clinical medicine, dentistry and health and nursing sciences, as well as a major social contributor to health promotion, disease genesis, in the research of diagnostics and treatment and in the development of the health service and education system. The faculty provides research-based multidisciplinary undergraduate education in educational programs that educate diverse and critically minded specialists. The research is multidisciplinary and results in new information aimed at promoting the health of the population and better patient care.

The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.

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