Project Researcher - Post-transcriptional Gene Regulation in the Major Human Pathogen Candida a[...]

Karlstad University; Turku; On-site; EUR 20 000 - 40 000; Full time

Job summary

A Finnish university is seeking a Project Researcher to study mRNA 3’end polyadenylation in Candida albicans. The role demands an MSc in biochemistry or related fields and lab experience, particularly in microbiology. Candidates should demonstrate strong experimental design aptitude and fluency in English. This position offers opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Versatile training and competence development

Comprehensive occupational health care

Flexible working hours

Supportive work community

Qualifications

• Candidates with lab experience preferred, especially in microbiology.
• Experience with bioinformatics and programming is advantageous.
• Must be fluent in English, both spoken and written.

Responsibilities

• Investigate mRNA 3’end polyadenylation in Candida albicans.
• Utilize microbiological methods, CRISPR-Cas9, RNA sequencing.
• Conduct bioinformatic analyses and project management.

Skills

Lab experience in microbiological techniques

Next-generation sequencing

Experimental design

Fluency in English

Education

MSc or equivalent in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology

Job description

Overview

The University of Turku has a unique, creative and inspirational work environment. Here you will work with top experts, pedagogues and researchers.

Candida albicans is a major human fungal pathogen of urgent global concern, especially as antifungal resistance rises and treatment options remain limited. Despite its clinical significance, key aspects of its molecular biology remain poorly understood, posing a major challenge to identifying new drug targets and developing effective therapies. Turtola lab (https://sites.utu.fi/turtolalab/ ), based in University of Turku, Finland, addresses these challenges by combining biochemical and molecular cell biology approaches to investigate fungal-specific gene expression pathways. Our mechanistic insights form the basis for exploring novel antifungal strategies together with our collaborators.

In this project, funded by the Research Council of Finland, you will be investigating the mechanism of mRNA 3’end polyadenylation in Candida albicans. The work will involve microbiological methods, CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing, RNA sequencing, and bioinformatic analyses, and can be extended to biochemical and functional characterization of RNA processing in vivo and in vitro.

The starting time for the position will be 1.1.2026, or upon mutual agreement and the contract duration will be until 31.8.2027. From the Project Researcher position, it is possible to apply for a Doctoral Researcher position, presuming that the applicant meets the admission criteria of the doctoral programme as well as the other requirements of the position. Read more about the Doctoral Programme in Technology at the University of Turku: https://www.utu.fi/en/research/utugs/dpt/admission .

-MSc or equivalent in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, or a related field. Candidates that are close to finishing their studies can also be considered; in this case the job title will be Research assistant. In this case, the duration of the contract is 6 months. If the relevant degree is obtained within these 6 months, the contract will be upgraded to the correct title with the appropriate change in salary.

-Priority will be given to candidates with demonstrated lab experience in microbiological techniques and/or first-hand experience in next-generation sequencing (library preparation, data analysis, programming). Candidates with experience in molecular biology and biochemistry are also encouraged to apply.

-Strong aptitude for experimental design, quick learning of new techniques, and ability to carry projects to completion.

-Fluent English (spoken and written) is essential.

We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Responsibilities

• Investigating the mechanism of mRNA 3’end polyadenylation in Candida albicans.
• Performing microbiological methods, CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing, RNA sequencing, and bioinformatic analyses.
• Possible biochemical and functional characterization of RNA processing in vivo and in vitro.

Qualifications

• MSc or equivalent in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, or related field; candidates near graduation may be considered as Research assistant (6-month contract with potential upgrade).
• Priority for candidates with lab experience in microbiological techniques and/or next-generation sequencing; experience in molecular biology/biochemistry is welcome.
• Strong aptitude for experimental design, quick learner, and ability to carry projects to completion.
• Fluent English (spoken and written).

Benefits

• Possibilities to develop your expertise – versatile training and competence development during working hours; Open University courses are free of charge for personnel.
• Your well-being is important to us! – comprehensive occupational health care and wellbeing services; CampusSport available at personnel price.
• We support your work-life balance – Flexible working hours, extensive remote work options, and long annual leaves.
• An inspiring and supportive work community – Encouraging collaboration and teamwork.

Application information

Applications must be submitted by 26th of October 2025 (16:00) using the electronic application form of the University of Turku at the following address: https://www.utu.fi/en/university/come-work-with-us/open-vacancies. Applications should be submitted in English and include:

• Letter of motivation
• CV
• Degree certificates and academic transcripts
• Contact details of at least two referees

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland as part of this opportunity.

The salaries are determined in accordance with the University salary system for teaching and research personnel. For a Project Researcher, the salary level is 2–3 depending on qualifications and experience, with total starting salary approximately 2500–2750 €/month. For a Research assistant, starting salary is approximately 2300 €/month. Salary details are defined in the employment contract.

The position is subject to a trial period of six (6) months (three months for a research assistant).

Ready to apply?

The Department of Life Technologies is seeking a Project Researcher - Post-transcriptional Gene Regulation in the Major Human Pathogen Candida albicans.