PhD Position in Biology

University of Helsinki

Institution: University of Helsinki, Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE)

Location: Helsinki, Finland

Contract: Initially 3 years, with possibility of continuation as an open-ended contract

Salary: €3,300–4,300/month, depending on experience

Application Deadline: 30 November 2025

Facility Overview

• Part of INSTRUCT-HILIFE structural biology platform: Cryo-EM, protein crystallization, and biocomplex purification.
• Current equipment: 200 kV Talos Arctica with Falcon 4i detector.
• Upcoming upgrades: 300 kV microscope and cryo-FIB/SEM installation in 2027.
• National and European service center role under FINSTRUCT and INSTRUCT-ERIC networks.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the cryo-EM facility.
• Sample preparation using Leica GP2 or Cryosol Vitrojet.
• Support users in structural biology projects, including data collection and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with team members and users on research projects.
• Contribute to service expansion, including preparation for upcoming 300 kV and cryo-FIB/SEM installations.

Candidate Profile

Required:

• PhD (or M.Sc. with strong cryo-EM experience).
• Experience with modern 200 kV (preferably 300 kV) cryo-electron microscopes.
• Skills in cryo-EM data processing, analysis, and troubleshooting.
• Strong teamwork and service orientation.

Desirable:

• Experience managing cryo-EM infrastructure.
• Publications in single particle cryo-EM or tomography.
• Experience with cryo-FIB/SEM.
• Collaborative research on user projects.

Application Requirements

• Motivation letter (1 page)
• CV (max 3 pages)
• List of publications
• Contact information of 2 references
• Submit as a single PDF via the University’s recruitment system

Contact for inquiries:
Dr. Tommi Kajander – tommi.kajander@helsinki.fi

Highlights / Benefits

• Opportunity to work in a leading cryo-EM facility with national and European impact.
• Exposure to top-end structural biology research and infrastructure upgrades.
• Supportive international research environment at HiLIFE.
• Finland: family-friendly, high quality of life, affordable education and healthcare.

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