项目介绍

2025年5月8日

The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and the laboratory of Dr. Suvi Kuivanen invites applications for the position of
 

Doctoral researcher in zoonotic virology
 

starting 1 August 2025 of by mutual agreement. Funding for the position is until 31 January 2029, with a possible extension.
 

We are looking for a motivated and forward-thinking scientist with a passion for research to join the recently established project ‘Uncovering the zoonotic potential of henipaviruses in European shrews’ at the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences. The present position is part of an Academy Research Fellow Grant awarded by the Research Council of Finland to Dr. Suvi Kuivanen.
 

The overall aim of the project is to assess the zoonotic potential and impact of henipa-like viruses in Europe. We will use a variety of molecular and cell biological methods together with bioinformatic approaches to evaluate the zoonotic potential of newly discovered henipa-like viruses in shrews.
 

As a PhD student, you will design and apply a range of in vitro techniques, including quantitative RT-PCR, recombinant protein production, and bacterial and mammalian cell culture assays; as well as in silico techniques to characterize the genomic properties, protein structure and functions, and phylogenetic relationships of the novel viruses.

About you
 

The ideal candidate

• Has a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field of research, such as microbiology or virology, molecular or cell biology, or biochemistry
• Has a high level of written and spoken English and strong communication, social, organisational and time management skills
• Has a strong interest in virology
• Is motivated, goal-oriented, and a team player
   

Candidate must successfully obtain the right to pursue a Ph.D. at the University of Helsinki within the first 6 months of employment.

What we offer
 

• A fixed term position until 31 Jan 2029 with a 6-month trial period
• A collaborative, innovative and inclusive work environment
• Performance based salary (job demands level 2-4), 5-7 weeks of annual leave, flexible working hours
• Occupational health care, access to high quality sports facilities and language classes
• Financial support for Finnish visa and residence permits, if required
   

The University of Helsinki is an international scientific community of 40,000 students and researchers. It is considered one of the leading multidisciplinary research universities in Europe. The Viikki campus, a major bioscience hub in Europe, is home to four faculties, research institutes and core facilities. The Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Program (MIBS) studies a wide range of biological entities, including molecules, viruses, microbes, animal cells, tissues, organ systems and organisms. The program integrates various experimental biosciences, such as biochemistry, genetics, structural biology, cell and developmental biology, virology, microbiology, and neuroscience and physiology.

How to apply

Candidates are required to submit their applications via the University of Helsinki’s electronic recruitment system. To begin the application process, please click on the “Apply for the position” option. Internal applicants are required to submit their applications via the SAP Fiori portal.

The position is open until May 23, 2025, or until a suitable candidate is found. The application should include the following documents, which should be consolidated into a single PDF file:

1. A letter of motivation describing your research interests (max. one page) including contact information of at least two referees
2. A curriculum vitae
3. Copy of M.Sc. diploma (or equivalent) AND a transcript of completed credits

Further information
 

• For more information on the position, contact Academy Research Fellow Suvi Kuivanen (suvi.kuivanen(at)helsinki.fi).
• For technical support regarding the recruitment system, please contact rekrytointi(at)helsinki.fi.
• Viikki Campus: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/campuses/viikki-campus
• Support for international staff: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/welcome