Doctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology
The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology starting 1st of September 2025 or as soon as possible after that for a maximum of four years. The fixed-term position is for completing doctoral studies.
Understanding the intranuclear mechanisms of herpesvirus reactivation and its effects on host chromatin structure and dynamics is essential for both basic research and the development of oncolytic virus therapies and novel antivirals that prevent virus reactivation. This PhD project aims to refine our understanding of the mechanisms underlying virus reactivation and the roles of chromatin organization and phase separation in this process. The project is part of an Academy Fellowship funded by the Research Council of Finland, titled “The role of DNA positioning and interactions in herpesvirus reactivation.” The research will be conducted at the University of Jyväskylä using a multidisciplinary approach that combines cell biology and biophysics with advanced imaging techniques, protein structure prediction algorithms, and biophysical modeling. The project will be carried out in collaboration with the Vihinen-Ranta research group (https://mvr-lab.org) and international partners. Both the research and imaging facilities at the University of Jyväskylä and those of our collaborators in Europe and the USA will be utilized.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for a skilled and motivated PhD candidate with a relevant Master’s degree (e.g., in biochemistry, molecular medicine, or cell and molecular biology). Previous experience in virus research, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and image analysis is considered an advantage. Strong teamwork skills and motivation for scientific research are essential.
The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master's degree. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. If the applicant does not have permission for post-graduate studies, it must be applied with a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science after selection for the position.
Benefits
At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2400 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.
How to apply?
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
- A Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
- A short and free-form motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including your research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
- Degree certificate (highest degree).
Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 15th of August 2025. Applications sent via email are not considered.
For further information, please contact Principal investigator, Academy Research Fellow, Salla Mattola, salla.m.mattola@jyu.fi.
We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARA principles.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
Department of Biological and Environmental Science
The research in the Department of Biological and Environmental Science focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is an integral part of the University of Jyväskylä's Ylistönrinne Mathematics and Science Research Complex, which includes buildings of chemistry, physics and nanoscience. Ambiotica houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, you have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout. After submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.
