The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university with about 3,600 employees producing high-standard research and providing research-based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 members. Our northern scientific community operates globally, fostering conditions for the emergence of innovations.

We are now looking for a

Doctoral Researcher

to join the education pilot in precision cancer medicine (iCANDOC) in the Vainio group, part of the Disease Network Research unit at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine.

The Vainio group is a leader in experimental organ/organoid biology, developing sophisticated tools to target complex tissue organization assembly mechanisms.

About the Job

Cancer initiation and progression depend on the interplay between heterogeneous tumor cells and the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), consisting of various types of stromal cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Our research focuses on understanding the composition and roles of tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) using in vivo and ex vivo models to develop novel cancer diagnostics and targeted therapeutics.

What We Offer

• Support from an experienced and enthusiastic team of 15 people where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits.
• Development and career options within a large organization.
• Meaningful work and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your loved ones in settling into Oulu.
• We hold the HR Excellence in Research quality label, awarded by the European Commission for developing researchers’ working conditions and careers.
• Finland offers a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who Are You?

As a doctoral researcher in our group, you will develop EV-based bioengineering technologies to target drug-loaded EVs to tumor cells, aiming to eradicate them and provide noninvasive monitoring of tumor eradication efficacy. You will utilize the kidney tissue engineering toolbox and excellent infrastructure to validate therapeutic approaches in preclinical models.

As a group member, you will access a network of national and international collaborations, exposing you to state-of-the-art methodologies for EV research and offering cutting-edge opportunities for internships, mobility, and further career development after completing the PhD in three years.

To succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you:

• Master’s or equivalent degree in molecular and cell biology, embryology, developmental biology, biochemistry, biomedicine, medicine, bioinformatics, data analysis, or related fields
• Excellent skills in cell culture, organoids, and in vivo disease modeling aimed at translational medicine
• Interest in applying cancer genetic and epigenetic/multi-OMICs data, such as EV bioinformatics and applied AI analytics, on experimental and clinical data (single-EV, single-cell RNASeq, proteomics, spatial methods are an advantage)
• Basic knowledge of cancer cell biology
• Fluent written and spoken English
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Full dedication to the research project and ability to meet project deadlines

We also appreciate:

• Previous experience in teaching
• Please see also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).

Salary

Doctoral researchers in the pilot program will be offered a three-year (36 month) fixed-term full-time employment contract by the University of Oulu, starting 1.1.2025 at the earliest. The selected applicants are expected to start their project no later than 1.2.2025. A six-month trial period applies.

The salary will be based on levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities, with an additional performance-based component (up to 50% of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approximately 2500-2800 € per month (before taxes).

How to Apply

Applications, with all relevant enclosures, should be submitted using the electronic application form by 30.9.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time). The application should be in English and include:

1. Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copies of relevant master’s degree certificates and transcripts, with official translations if necessary.
2. Motivation Letter: (max. 2 pages) Summarizing professional experience, expertise, and why the applicant is a good fit for the position, including personal research interests, experience, and career plans.
3. Curriculum Vitae: (max. 2 pages) Using a recommended template from the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity, including a list of peer-reviewed scientific publications.
4. Research Plan: (max. 4 pages) Detailing the planned use and expected value of EVs in addressing the research questions mentioned in the job description. Contact Prof. Seppo Vainio and Adj. Prof. Anatoliy Samoylenko for guidance.
5. Language Proficiency: A valid certificate or demonstration of proficiency in English.

Only complete applications submitted through the online system by the deadline will be considered. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact Professor Seppo Vainio (seppo.vainio@oulu.fi) or Adjunct Professor Anatoliy Samoylenko (anatoliy.samoylenko@oulu.fi).

Type of Employment: Fixed-term
Contract Type: Full-time
First Day of Employment: 1.1.2025 (at the earliest)
Salary: Based on levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff, with a performance-based component
Number of Positions: 1
Full-time Equivalent: 1.0
City: Oulu
County: Northern Ostrobothnia
Country: Finland
Reference Number: [Insert Reference Number]
Contact: Seppo Vainio, +358407470939
Last Application Date: 30.9.2024