Researcher in Medicine

Institution: Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki
Position Type: Fixed-term
Start Date: 1 January 2026 or by mutual agreement
Duration: 2 years (subject to 6-month trial period, possibility of extension)
Application Deadline: 31 October 2025

Short Introduction

The Virus Infections and Immunity Research Group invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate the human virome and its impact on human health and disease. We combine cutting-edge wet-lab experimentation with advanced computational approaches to map the diversity, dynamics, and tissue distribution of viruses in the human body. We investigate how these viral communities influence disease susceptibility and pathogenesis, immunity, and molecular physiology.

The group is located at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Helsinki, Meilahti campus.

About the Role

The successful candidate will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment dedicated to exploring host–virus interactions and their impact on human health and disease. The position comprises:

• Wet-lab experiments

• Advanced computational analyses

• Development of innovative methodologies to investigate the human tissue-resident virome

The position is embedded within a dedicated and inspiring research group that values interdisciplinary teamwork, scientific rigor, and innovation. Collaboration with clinicians and other experts in molecular virology, immunology, genomics, and bioinformatics is integral to the role.

Qualifications

• PhD (completed or near completion) in medicine, virology, molecular biology, immunology, computational biology, or a related field

• Proven experience in wet-lab techniques relevant to virology, molecular biology, or immunology

• Expertise in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), including laboratory methods and data analysis pipelines, is an asset

• Knowledge in bioinformatics/data analysis and ability to handle complex datasets is an asset

• Strong publication record relative to career stage

• Excellent communication skills in English and ability to work independently and in a collaborative research team

The degree requirement must be met by the beginning of the employment. The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.

What We Provide

• Open, collaborative, and supportive research environment

• Opportunities to develop independent research lines and co-supervise students

• Contribution to high-impact publications

• Comprehensive employee services, including occupational health care, health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, generous holiday package, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted in English as a single PDF file comprising:

• Motivation letter outlining motivation, relevant expertise, research interests, career goals, and fit for the role

• Complete Curriculum Vitae, including publications and at least two referees

• Certificates/Diplomas: scanned copies of diplomas and transcripts of relevant previous degrees

Closing date for applications: 31 October 2025

Contact person: Maria Perdomo, MD PhD, maria.perdomo@helsinki.fi

The University of Helsinki values a diverse and equitable study and work culture and encourages all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

About the University of Helsinki

The Faculty of Medicine promotes high-quality scientific research and provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology, and logopedics, as well as an international Master's Programme in Translational Medicine. It also offers psychotherapist education.

The Faculty constitutes the academic medical center together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), ranking among the top 10 medical campuses in Europe and top 50 globally.

Science has the power to change the world. Join one of the best research universities in the world – an international community united through bold thinking, research, and learning, with over 30,000 students and 8,000 employees. The University promotes multidisciplinary collaboration and a culture of truth, freedom, inclusivity, and work that truly matters.

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com