Doctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology

European Commission; Finland; On-site; EUR 60 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Finland seeks a motivated Doctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology to conduct significant research on herpesvirus reactivation mechanisms. This four-year position offers professional development within a vibrant international research community, starting September 2025. Candidates should possess a relevant Master’s degree and strong teamwork skills.

Benefits

Opportunities for personal and professional development

International research community

Vibrant campus life

Qualifications

• PhD candidate with relevant Master's degree.
• Prior experience in virus research and confocal microscopy is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research towards a doctoral thesis.
• Assist in teaching and related tasks.

Skills

Teamwork skills

Motivation for scientific research

Education

Master's degree in biochemistry, molecular medicine, or cell and molecular biology

Job description

Organisation/Company: University of Jyväskylä

Research Field: Biological sciences > Other, Chemistry > Biochemistry, Medical sciences > Other

Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country: Finland

Application Deadline: 15 Aug 2025 - 20:59 (UTC)

Type of Contract: Temporary

Job Status: Full-time

Hours Per Week: 38

Funding: Not funded by an EU programme

Research Infrastructure: No

Offer Description

The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology starting 1st of September 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter, for a maximum of four years. This fixed-term position aims at completing doctoral studies.

The project focuses on understanding the intranuclear mechanisms of herpesvirus reactivation and its effects on host chromatin structure and dynamics. It is part of an Academy Fellowship funded by the Research Council of Finland, titled “The role of DNA positioning and interactions in herpesvirus reactivation.” Research will be conducted at the University of Jyväskylä, employing multidisciplinary approaches including cell biology, biophysics, advanced imaging, protein structure prediction, and biophysical modeling, in collaboration with the Vihinen-Ranta research group and international partners.

Who we are looking for

We seek a motivated PhD candidate with a relevant Master’s degree (e.g., in biochemistry, molecular medicine, or cell and molecular biology). Prior experience in virus research, confocal microscopy, and image analysis is advantageous. Strong teamwork skills and motivation for scientific research are essential.

The duties include research towards a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting in teaching, and related tasks. The candidate must meet the university's requirements for postgraduate studies and have a good command of English. A six-month trial period will be applied at the start of employment.

Applicants should have or be about to obtain a suitable Master’s degree. If not already obtained, permission for postgraduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä must be applied for separately after selection.

We offer an international research community, opportunities for personal and professional development, and a vibrant campus life. Finland provides a high standard of living, free education (including in English), healthcare, and family benefits. Jyväskylä, in central Finland, offers excellent outdoor and cultural activities, with a large student population and a lively cultural scene.

The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is based on task-specific demand levels 2–4 of the university salary system, starting at approximately 2400 €/month (gross). Salary will be revised with progress in thesis work.

How to apply?

Submit your application in English, in PDF format, including:

• A short motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing your research interests, career goals, and relevant experience.

Applications must be submitted via the online form by 15 August 2025. Email applications are not accepted.

For further information, contact Principal Investigator Salla Mattola at [e-mail].

Our recruitment process is transparent and inclusive, valuing diversity. We encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Department of Biological and Environmental Science

The department’s research focuses on evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Ambiotica building hosts high-quality laboratories and facilities for bioscience and chemical analyses.

The University of Jyväskylä employs about 2,500 staff and 14,500 students, aiming to foster wisdom and wellbeing. Its campus is located in Jyväskylä, central Finland.

The application form cannot be saved as a draft but can be edited until the deadline. You have 6 hours to complete the application once started.