Bioinformatician – Single Cell Immunology Project Researcher (Doctoral Researcher), Fixed Term, 12 months

Are you excited about decoding the complexity of the immune system through cutting‑edge computational methods? Our research group at the University of Turku is looking for a motivated and curious Bioinformatician to join our team and contribute to high‑impact projects in immunology and single‑cell biology. The position is a fixed term one for 12 months, with a possibility for an extension. We investigate the dynamics and roles of innate immune cells in various diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and multiple sclerosis (https://mildnerlab.utu.fi/).

About the Position

We are looking for a person able to analyze large sets of scRNA‑seq data from mouse and human immune cells. The ideal candidate enjoys exploring data deeply, developing new analytical strategies, and working both collaboratively and independently. A strong sense of scientific curiosity and the willingness to learn and apply new computational methods are essential. The initial contract includes a three-month probationary period and runs for twelve (12) months, with the possibility of an extension. Starting date is flexible, but not later than end February 2025. The salary will be adjusted according to the applicant’s experience and follows the university’s guidelines.

Key Responsibilities::
-Analysis of large‑scale scRNA‑seq datasets from mouse and human immune cells
-Development and application of new computational workflows for single‑cell data
-Integration of multi‑omics datasets (RNA‑seq, ATAC‑seq, proteomics, etc.)
-Collaboration with immunologists and experimental biologists to interpret results
-Preparation of figures, reports, and contributions to publications

Who we are looking for

Requirements

-Experience with single‑cell RNA‑seq analysis (Seurat, Scanpy, or similar tools)
-Strong programming skills in R and/or Python
-Ability to work independently and drive projects forward
-A curious, problem‑solving mindset and interest in new methods
-Background in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field

-Experience with bulk RNA-Seq, ATAC‑seq, and Cut&Run are of advantage

-A very good level of English language – the research group operates in English
-A relevant Masters degree is required. A PhD is not a prerequisite, but it is considered an advantage.

We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

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Benefits

What We Offer:
-Flexible working hours to support work–life balance
-Option for 50% or 100% employment contracts depending on your situation
-Possibility for partial remote work
-A collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
-Opportunities for skill development and conference participation

-In case the applicant does not hold a PhD title, there is a possibility of attempting to progress towards a PhD researcher position. If the successful candidate already has a relevant Study Right as a Doctoral Student at UTU, the job can be offered as a PhD Researcher position directly.

We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.

  • Possibilities to develop your expertise – We encourage our personnel to develop their professional expertise by offering versatile training and competence development possibilities which employees can take advantage of during their working hours. Also, the course offering of Open University is free of charge for our personnel.
  • Your well-being is important to us! – In addition to comprehensive occupational health care, our own well-being services monitor, support and develop the well-being of our personnel. You are entitled to use the CampusSport’s services at a personnel price.
  • We support your work-life balance – Flexible working hours and extensive remote work options help you balance work and leisure time. 
  • An inspiring and supportive work community – We encourage each other and value working together!

Please read more about University of Turku as an employer from our Come work with us! pages.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers. 

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:

The University of Turku is among the top of the world’s universities in most rankings and among the best universities in the world in certain fields. Our high-quality basic research, a multidisciplinary research profile and close cooperation in research infrastructures creates the basis for international top research. Read more about University of Turku in international university rankings.

The University of Turku has several high-quality research infrastructures required for cutting-edge research. Learn more about the roadmap of research infrastructures and how the research infrastructure and expert teams offer tailored solutions for businesses and organizations.

Salary and trial period

The salary is determined according to the level of demand for teaching and research staff in the university salary system. The salary of a project researcher/doctoral researcher (bioinformatician) is at level 2 - 4, and a starting researcher is normally at level 2, where the basic salary is currently €2,281.48. In addition, the salary criteria include a personal performance component, which is a maximum of 50% of the basic salary. The salary is determined when drawing up the employment contract based on the competence and experience selected for the position. The salary for a starting researcher is normally approximately €2,500-2,600/month. The position has a probationary period of five (5) months.

How to apply

If you are passionate about computational immunology and want to contribute to meaningful scientific discoveries, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 17.02.2026 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki).

Applicants should enclose with their application:

  • cover letter including a short description of applicant’s relevant skills and the motivation for this post
  • CV
  • either 2–3 recommendations or the contact details of 2–3 referees.
  • other documents that may influence the filling of the position.

Further information

For further information about the position, please contact:Associate Professor Alexander Mildner, alexander.mildner(at)utu.fi

With questions about the application process, please contact Anne Jackson, Human Resources Specialist, anne.jackson(at)utu.fi

Medicity

MediCity Research Laboratory provides laboratory, infrastructure, and office space for altogether about 130 scientists and technicians. Our basic goal is to create a stimulating research and training environment for our researchers and produce high-quality research in biomedicine and translational medicine. We offer a multicultural working environment as many of our researchers and staff come from all over the world.

The Faculty of Medicine is a high level, international and innovative research and education unit in biomedicine, clinical medicine, dentistry and health and nursing sciences, as well as a major social contributor to health promotion, disease genesis, in the research of diagnostics and treatment and in the development of the health service and education system. The faculty provides research-based multidisciplinary undergraduate education in educational programs that educate diverse and critically minded specialists. The research is multidisciplinary and results in new information aimed at promoting the health of the population and better patient care.

The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.

See our open positions

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Email: alexander.mildner@utu.fi
Location: 20014 Turun yliopisto

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Bioinformatician – Single Cell Immunology Project Researcher (Doctoral Researcher), Fixed Term, 12 months

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