PhD Position in Software Engineering

University of Helsinki

Location: Helsinki, Finland
Application Deadline: 30 January 2026

About FinnGen

FinnGen is one of the largest genomics research projects globally, combining extensive health records with genomic data from hundreds of thousands of individuals. Our collaborative team includes researchers from Finnish universities, hospitals, biobanks, and 15 international pharmaceutical partners.

At FIMM, we focus on leveraging big data and software solutions to transform human health through genomics and personalized medicine.

Role Overview

As a Software Developer, you will:

• Develop computational tools and web UIs for data browsing and visualisation.
• Build infrastructure for big data analysis supporting complex queries.
• Design reproducible data-analysis pipelines for large-scale datasets.

You will work in a collaborative environment with opportunities to visit the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard.

Qualifications

Required:

• BSc or MSc in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Bioinformatics, or related field
• 1–3 years of software engineering experience
• Strong foundation in data structures and algorithms
• Proficiency in a general-purpose programming language (Python, Java, C++)
• Experience with infrastructure as code (e.g., Terraform)
• Web development experience (React, TypeScript, JavaScript)
• Knowledge of databases (SQL/NoSQL), Linux, shell scripting, git, and containerization
• Fluent English (Finnish not required)

Preferred:

• Cloud computing (Google Cloud) experience
• Knowledge of genetics, sequencing, and electronic health records (EHR)
• Experience in statistics, machine learning, and big data technologies
• R programming knowledge

Contract & Benefits

• Initial contract until 31 August 2027, with a 6-month trial period
• Salary based on the University of Helsinki system (YPJ), reflecting qualifications and experience
• Comprehensive benefits, including occupational health care, sports facilities, professional development, and support for international employees and families

Application Process

Submit a single PDF via the University of Helsinki Recruitment System including:

• Motivation letter (1–2 pages)
• Detailed CV
• Two reference letters or referees’ contact details

For questions, contact:

• Mitja Kurki, Analysis Team Leader: mitja.kurki@helsinki.fi
• Arto Lehisto, Software Engineering Manager: arto.lehisto@helsinki.fi

More Information:

• FIMM
• FinnGen

Join us and help shape the future of genomics and healthcare!