Doctoral Researcher in Protein Synthesis
Join a newly established lab at the University of Helsinki to investigate the mechanisms of protein synthesis and discover novel inhibitors.
Best for:Best for ambitious life science graduates with a background in biochemistry or molecular biology seeking rigorous multidisciplinary training in structural and chemical biology.
Overview
The University of Helsinki invites applications for a fully funded Doctoral Researcher position within the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences. Working on the project 'Inhibiting Protein Synthesis – Old, New, Borrowed, Blue' funded by the Research Council of Finland, the successful candidate will conduct interdisciplinary research combining cellular and chemical biology, cell-free protein synthesis, and cryoEM. Under the supervision of Dr. Sarah O’Keefe and co-supervision of Brendan Battersby, the researcher will complete an article-based PhD thesis and 30 ECTS credits of doctoral studies. The appointee will benefit from close mentorship, international mobility, and access to state-of-the-art research infrastructures.
What you'll do
- Perform cellular and molecular biology experiments to study the mechanisms of protein synthesis and translation.
- Utilize advanced techniques such as cell-free protein synthesis, gene editing, and high-throughput screening.
- Prepare samples and collaborate closely with local units for cryo-electron microscopy analysis.
- Complete 30 ECTS credits of required coursework and write an article-based doctoral thesis.
- Participate in international conferences and undertake short-term research visits to partner institutions such as the University of Leeds.
- Contribute to scientific writing, project management, and collaborative tasks within an interdisciplinary research team.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in biology, biological sciences, biochemistry, pharmacy, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and spoken proficiency
Instruction: English
Publications: Any publications or manuscripts in preparation should be listed in the CV if available.
- Ambition, collegiality, and motivation to pursue multidisciplinary scientific research
- Ability to work independently, solve problems, and master new technical skills
- Strong collaborative teamwork skills suited for an international research environment
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English
- Must hold or be due to complete a relevant Master’s degree prior to the start date
- Must reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki
- Must secure the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the six-month probationary period
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-13 (Europe/Helsinki)
Prepare all required application documents combined into a single PDF file named using the format 'lastname_firstname'. Submit your application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system using the 'Apply now' link before the deadline.
- Cover letter
- CV
- Master’s diploma
- Transcript of records
- 3 reference letters
- Succinct answers to specific project-related questions
Contact
Sarah O’Keefe· Principal Investigator
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