Project Researcher, Molecular Neurodegeneration

The University of Eastern Finland is inviting applications for a Project Researcher position on the Kuopio Campus. The position will be filled for a two-year term from 1 January 2025 onwards (or as agreed). Please find more information below and submit your application by 29 November 2024

Role and salary 

The Molecular Neurodegeneration Lab (Haapasalo Lab) at the A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, is seeking an enthusiastic Project Researcher with an MSc degree (or equivalent) in neurosciences, neurobiology, biomedicine, or a related field, who has previous experience in or a strong motivation to learn to work with human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) and about their differentiation to different types of brain cells. 

This position is part of our ongoing research projects, which aim to reveal the role and interactions of neurons and microglia in the pathogenesis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). We are an energetic and international research group with a great team atmosphere, focusing on molecular level mechanisms and biomarker studies in FTD. Our research is highly translational, and we offer excellent opportunities to interact, collaborate, and network with Finnish and international basic and clinical researchers working on neurodegenerative disorders.

The position is offered as a two-year appointment. The position is filled for a fixed-term due to it pertaining to a specific project task. A probationary period is applied to all new members of the staff.  Based on the personal motivation of the Project Researcher, we offer an oppornity to conduct studies towards a PhD degree.

The salary of the position is determined in accordance with the salary system for Finnish universities. The salary comprises two components: a job-related salary element and a personal salary element. In this position, the job requirement level is based on levels 2 -3 of the job requirement level chart for teaching and research staff. The personal salary element is 6 - 50% of the job-related salary element. Depending on the personal salary element, the salary will be approximately EUR 2,500 - 3,300 /month.
 
Our requirements and expectations 

We invite applications from talented individuals with previous expertise in or a strong motivation to learn about hands-on hiPSC work and hiPSC differentation into brain cells (neurons and microglia) and their molecular and cellular characterization. We welcome applicants who are highly motivated and passionate about strongly contributing to the research of FTD and neurodegeneration. 

Requirements

• An MSc. degree or equivalent in neurosciences, neurobiology, biomedicine, or a similar field. 
• Research experience: Demonstrable experience in hands-on laboratory research within the field of of neuroscience, neurobiology, neurodegeneration research or a closely related area.
• Skills:  Proficiency in cell culture and aseptic work techniques. Also, good skills in molecular and cell biology and/or cell imaging methods are considered an advantage. Great organizing skills and an ability to work systematically, independently, and with precision are required.
• Communication: Excellent English communication skills, both written and oral.
• Teamwork: An ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary and international team.
• Motivation: A passion for hands-on scientific research, problem-solving abilities, and a strong desire to contribute to the field of neurodegenerative disease research.

Expectations

• An ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary and international team and take advice from supervisors.
• Great organizing skills and an ability to work systematically, independently, and with precision. 
• A passion for scientific research, problem-solving and organizing skills
• A strong interest in and a desire to contribute to the field of neurodegeneration.

Your benefits 

You will have access to the university’s staff benefits, including  

• the opportunity for flexible multi-location work
• extensive occupational health care  
• a broad selection of staff training
• staff discount on lunch in our campus restaurants, as well as on a range of other services  
• affordable sports services and a tax-free bike benefit.

Please read more in the Work at UEF section on our website.

You will have an opportunity to work in an interesting, meaningful and diverse role as part of our international, creative, participatory and inclusive academic community.

Enjoy your life in Finland! Known for its cleanliness, welfare know-how, modern technology and superb education system, Finland is an exotic and safe country to work in. Please visit the Life in Finland section to learn more.

How to apply? 

Submit your application by using our electronic application form no later than 29 November 2024 by 24:00 (midnight) Finnish time (UTC+2)

Please note that you must include the following appendices in your application

• a CV (Template for CV , website)  
• a list of publications (Instructions, website), if applicable
• copies of your academic degree certificates / diplomas, and copies of certificates / diplomas relating to your language proficiency, if not indicated in the academic degree certificates/diplomas  
• a motivation letter: a detailed letter explaining your interest in the project, how you believe you can contribute to our objectives, and why you consider yourself a strong fit for the role
•  names and contact information of two or more references. 

Questions? 

For further information on the position, please contact Professor Annakaisa Haapasalo, annakaisa.haapasalo@uef.fi,  +358 40 355 2768.

For further information on the application procedure, please contact HR Controller Tarja Salmi, tarja.salmi@uef.fi, +358 29 445 8220.

The Faculty of Health Sciences operates at the Kuopio Campus of the University of Eastern Finland. The Faculty offers education in medicine, dentistry, nutrition and pharmacy, as well as in some other central fields of the health care sector. The Faculty is research-intensive, and its internationally recognised research activities are closely linked to the strategic research areas of the University. There are approximately 3 090 degree students and about 580 PhD students in the Faculty. The faculty has 800 staff members.

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is the most multidisciplinary university in Finland. Our university employs approximately 3,200 employees, and our community includes approximately 17,000 degree students and 16,000 adult education students. Our campuses are located in Joensuu and Kuopio. We represent the world’s cutting edge of research in many fields and produce research-based knowledge, which is made openly available to benefit everyone. Learn more about our university at www.uef.fi/en. Read also about UEF as a working community and employer and the career stories of our employees.

1. Annakaisa Haapasalo, +358403552768
2. Tarja Salmi, +358294458220