Postdoctoral Position in Molecular Biology

University of Helsinki

Institutions: University of Helsinki – Lengefeld Lab (Viikki Campus) & Khan Lab (Faculty of Medicine)
Unit: Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), Institute of Biotechnology
Location: Helsinki Metropolitan Area, Finland
Start Date: Flexible, positions open immediately
Duration: Postdoctoral positions: 2 years (initially), PhD positions: 4 years (initially)
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026 (23:59 Europe/Helsinki time)

Description

The laboratories of Dr. Jette Lengefeld (www.lengefeldlab.com) and Dr. Nahid Khan invite applications for two postdoctoral and two PhD student positions in stem cell, metabolism, and aging biology.

The project is NovoNordisk funded and focuses on how rejuvenating the blood system affects systemic metabolic functions during aging. Using mouse models, flow cytometry, RNA/DNA sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, immunofluorescence microscopy, HSC transplantation, and assays of multiple organs, the goal is to metabolically restore cellular functions to extend healthspan.

Lengefeld Lab

Postdoctoral Researcher

Qualifications:

• PhD in hematology, hematopoietic stem cell biology, aging biology, or related field (degree must be completed by start of employment)
• Strong interest in cutting-edge research, self-driven, and ability to work intra- and inter-team
• Expertise in stem cell biology and mouse models highly desirable
• Excellent communication skills in English

PhD Student

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, or related field
• Hands-on experience with mouse models (handling, treatment, phenotyping)
• Experience with stem cell research and microscopy
• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with data analysis tools
• Highly motivated, collaborative, and knowledge of aging pathways
• Excellent communication skills in English

Khan Lab

Postdoctoral Researcher

Qualifications:

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Metabolism, or related field
• Expertise in FACS-based immunophenotyping and general immunology techniques
• Experience with metabolomics analysis (LC-MS/MS or GC-MS)
• Proficiency in transcriptomics analysis (RNA-seq) and bioinformatics workflows
• Histological tissue analysis (H&E, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence), microscopy
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with mouse models and histology
• Familiarity with multi-omics data integration
• Knowledge of immunometabolic pathways

PhD Student

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related field
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, Western blotting)
• Experience with metabolomics (sample prep, LC-MS/MS, GC-MS)
• Skilled in mouse models and/or cell culture experiments
• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with data analysis tools
• Highly motivated and collaborative

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of aging models or metabolic pathways
• Experience with histology or imaging techniques
• Familiarity with R or other statistical tools

Employment Conditions

• Trial period of 6 months
• Salaries based on University of Helsinki salary scheme for teaching and research personnel
• Contributions to research and collaborative work

Application Process

Applicants must submit via the University of Helsinki recruitment system:

1. Cover letter detailing research experience and interests
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV) including Google Scholar profile
3. Contact information for two references

Applicants employed by the University of Helsinki must apply via the SAP Fiori portal.

Deadline: March 1, 2026 (positions may be filled earlier if suitable candidates are identified)

Technical support: rekrytointi@helsinki.fi

Selected Recent Publications

• Lengefeld J. et al., Cell size determines stem cell potential during aging, Science Advances (2021)
• Khan NA et al., mTORC1 Regulates Mitochondrial Integrated Stress Response and Mitochondrial Myopathy Progression, Cell Metabolism (2017)
• Pirinen E et al., Niacin Cures Systemic NAD+ Deficiency and Improves Muscle Performance in Adult-Onset Mitochondrial Myopathy, Cell Metabolism (2020)

About Finland and Helsinki

• High-quality free schooling (including English), generous family benefits, and healthcare
• Helsinki region offers a vibrant science ecosystem, strong support services, and international collaboration
• HiLIFE coordinates research infrastructures and provides interdisciplinary training in life sciences
• University of Helsinki: founded in 1640, with 40,000 students and staff, globally recognized for multidisciplinary research

For more information: Working at University of Helsinki