Postdoctoral Research Fellows in Proteomics: Neurodevelopment, Cancer and Drug Toxicity, 3 positions

Job description

The Varjosalo group and the newly established Järvinen group at the Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki are looking for three postdoctoral research fellows. We use mass spectrometry-based proteomics to understand how proteins, their interactions, and their modifications drive disease and drug response, and we develop the methods to address these questions across basic, clinical, and translational proteomics. Markku Varjosalo serves as Scientific Director of the Helsinki Proteomics Center (HPC), Finland's national proteomics infrastructure. Our research group is located next to the HPC, giving our projects direct access to extensive, state-of-the-art instrumentation across both life science campuses — Viikki and Meilahti. We are hiring in three areas. You may apply to more than one; state your preference in your motivation letter. 1. Neurodevelopmental proteomics You will map the molecular circuitry of human neurodevelopment using advanced 2D and 3D cell models together with patient-derived clinical material. The work combines differentiation systems and organoid or assembloid models with interaction and expression proteomics, with the aim of connecting genetic variants to the protein networks they disturb. The project involves a close collaboration with our neurobiology experts from the Neuroscience Center and the Karolinska Institute. We are looking for someone with a background in stem cell biology, neurobiology or developmental biology, and an appetite for quantitative data. Prior mass spectrometry experience is welcome but not required; we will train you. 2. Clinical proteomics of acute myeloid leukemia You will work with patient-derived AML specimens, profiling their proteome and interactome to uncover how the disease is wired at the protein level, why it relapses, and how it develops drug resistance. The project is grounded in real clinical cohorts and is carried out in close collaboration with clinical hematologists at the University Hospital, providing a direct link between cutting-edge proteomics research and patient care. We are looking for someone with hands-on experience handling and preparing clinical patient material for molecular analysis, and who can hold both the disease biology and data analysis in view at the same time. 3. Chemoproteomics of drug toxicity and efficacy You will use chemoproteomic approaches to characterize target engagement, selectivity and phenotype mechanisms directly in primary human cells and employ machine learning methods for data analysis. This includes activity-based profiling, global- and phosphoproteomics and phenotype deconvolution for drugs causing liver toxicity. The project is conducted within the newly established research group of Dr. Erkka Järvinen, giving you a unique opportunity to help shape this emerging line of research. A chemical biology, bioscience, or medicinal chemistry background is a natural fit, but so is a background in proteomics or other data-rich biological fields, with a strong interest in small molecules. The position also connects closely with the AML work above. What we expect from all applicants: • A doctoral degree in a relevant field, completed or close to completion at the time of appointment. • A publication record appropriate to career stage. • Independence in planning and running your own work, willingness to help others in the group, and active participation in research fundraising. • Excellent written and spoken English; Finnish is not required. The chosen applicants are expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki. What we offer The salary follows the Finnish university salary system, requirement level 5, with a personal performance component on top, giving a monthly gross salary of approximately EUR 3900-4376. The appointment is for 2-3 years with a 6-month trial period, starting 1st of October or as agreed. Beyond the salary: occupational healthcare, a subsidized lunch, a generous holiday bonus, and a functioning parental leave system. Helsinki is an international city where English gets you through daily life, and the university community is more so: much of our group and of the wider institute comes from outside Finland. The Viikki campus sits next to a nature reserve, twenty minutes by bus from the Helsinki city center. The International Staff Services support relocation, including help with residence permits and with finding schools and daycare for children. Please read more why you should choose the University of Helsinki as your next place to work: and why you should choose Finland as your home: How to apply Applications should be submitted via the University of Helsinki recruitment system using the “Apply Now” link by 30th of September 2026. Please include a CV, a publication list, a one-page motivation letter naming the position or positions you are interested in, and the contact details of two or three referees. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the positions may be filled before the deadline if suitable candidates are identified. Please note that we only consider applications that come through the recruitment system. Applications submitted by e-mail will not be considered. Technical support for using the recruitment system: The University of Helsinki is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. About Hilife Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) was established in 2017 and 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.