Researcher in Neuroscience

University of Helsinki

Unit: Helsinki Institute of Life Science
Sub-unit: Neuroscience Center
Position ID: 4598
Employment Type: Full-time, fixed-term
Duration: Two years, with possible continuation
Start Date: 1 March 2026 or upon agreement
Salary: Approximately €3,500 per month (Finnish University Salary System, YPJ)
Trial Period: Six months
Application Deadline: 30 January 2026 (23:59 Europe/Helsinki time)

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About Sari Lauri Research Group

The Research Laboratory in Synaptic Plasticity and Development, led by Sari Lauri, is affiliated with the Neuroscience Center at the University of Helsinki (https://www2.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/synaptic-plasticity-and-development).

The research interests focus on the functional maturation of neuronal circuitries in healthy and diseased brain. Research is conducted at multiple levels, from molecular mechanisms to behaviour, using animal models and various electrophysiological techniques in combination with optogenetic and chemogenetic tools, local genetic manipulation, histological analysis, and behavioural tests.

The group provides an international, inspiring, and supportive research environment with excellent research facilities.

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The Position

The Postdoctoral Researcher will work on a project characterizing the effects of kainate receptors on the functional maturation of GABAergic interneurons, focusing on PV and SOM subtypes in limbic microcircuitries.

The physiological significance of the findings will be investigated in the context of:

• Early life stress
• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Aberrant amygdala-dependent behaviors

The selected candidate will:

• Perform in vitro (patch clamp) and in vivo electrophysiological recordings
• Conduct AAV viral infections
• Carry out advanced data analysis
• Supervise research trainees within the group

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About You

Applicants are expected to be early career researchers with a PhD degree in neuroscience or physiology.

Previous experience in the following areas is considered an asset:

• In vitro and in vivo electrophysiological techniques
  • Field recordings and whole-cell patch-clamp in vitro
  • Multi-unit activity in vivo
• Immunocytochemistry
• Small animal surgery (brain microinjections)
• Behavioural tests
• Work with transgenic mouse lines

Applicants should be collaborative, communicative, and comfortable working in an international and multidisciplinary environment.

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What We Offer

• A two-year position with possible continuation
• Salary based on the Finnish university salary system (YPJ), approximately €3,500 per month depending on qualifications and performance
• Six-month trial period

More information on working at the University of Helsinki:
https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki

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How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the University of Helsinki recruitment system using the Apply Now link.

Please attach the following documents:

• Cover letter describing previous research experience and expectations for future work
• CV (including ORCID iD and publication list)
• PhD diploma
• Contact details of at least two references

Applications are processed on a rolling basis, and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

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Further Information

For further information regarding the position, please contact:
Sari Lauri
Email: sari.lauri(at)helsinki.fi

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About the Neuroscience Center

The Neuroscience Center (NC) fosters a vibrant intellectual environment that brings together a multidisciplinary group of neuroscientists. Its mission is to advance fundamental discoveries in neuroscience to understand how the brain generates complex dynamics and behaviours in health and disease.

Research spans from stem cell research to neurobiology, circuit neuroscience, and systems neuroscience, using cutting-edge neurotechnology platforms, neuroimaging tools, and advanced analysis techniques.

The Center is committed to an inclusive, safe, and supportive international research culture.

More information:
https://www.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-helsinki-institute-life-science/units/neuroscience-center