Doctoral Candidate in Gut Microbiome and Neuroinflammation
Investigate bacterial extracellular vesicles from menopausal women to uncover microbiome-brain interactions.
Best for:Best for biology or computer science master's graduates with an interest in microbiome research and immunology.
Overview
The Kerttu Saalasti Institute at the University of Oulu in Finland is offering a 3-year full-time PhD position as part of the EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network 'MenoBrain'. The successful candidate will examine bacterial extracellular vesicles isolated from stool samples to determine how they relate to cognitive performance and menopause-related phenotypes. The project focuses on uncovering how these vesicles activate innate immune pathways relevant to neuroinflammation. The researcher will engage in microbiome profiling, biomarker discovery, and translational approaches to understand cognitive health in menopause.
What you'll do
- Isolate and characterize bacterial extracellular vesicles from stool samples of menopausal women
- Analyze associations between vesicle profiles, cognitive performance, and menopause-related phenotypes
- Investigate the activation of innate immune pathways by bacterial extracellular vesicles in the context of neuroinflammation
- Perform microbiome profiling and contribute to metabolic modelling and translational analyses
- Collaborate with international partners within the MenoBrain network and present research findings at scientific venues
Requirements
Degree required: Master Degree or equivalent
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent proficiency required
Instruction: English
- Master's degree or equivalent in Biological Sciences, Computer Science, or a related discipline
- Strong background or interest in microbiome research, immunology, or molecular biology
- Experience with laboratory techniques for sample isolation and characterization
- Analytical skills for handling biological datasets and profiling results
- Must comply with the Horizon Europe MSCA mobility rules for doctoral candidates
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15 (Europe/Berlin)
Prepare your application materials and submit them via email to the designated address with the appropriate subject line referencing the position title.
- CV
- Master's degree transcripts
Contact
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