A laboratory technician position is available in the McWilliams lab in the Research Programs Unit. Our research focuses on autophagy, a critical membrane-based recycling mechanism with important medical relevance. We aim to advance our understanding of how autophagy is regulated under physiological conditions and to use these insights to drive therapeutic advances for diseases associated with impaired autophagy. In addition, we are committed to developing innovative methods and technologies for the field while fostering the training and development of the next generation of researchers.
Your priorities
This support role involves implementing cell culture-based assays and performing essential tasks that support the activities of the research team. You will take primary responsibility for managing cell culture workflows, generating samples for downstream analysis, and assisting with various assays to support the lab's research activities. The role also includes working with DNA, RNA, and protein, as well as contributing to essential tasks that ensure the smooth operation of the lab (e.g. equipment maintenance, sample management). Hands-on experience in cell culture is essential, along with proficiency in molecular biology techniques.
Who we are looking for
The position requires a BSc degree from a University of Applied Sciences or an MSc in genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, or related fields, alongside relevant experience. Strong teamwork, excellent communication skills and a high level of professional maturity are essential. Fluency in English and Finnish is required. The successful candidate must be able to work independently while providing essential support to frontline research projects. Extensive experience with large-scale mammalian cell culture experiments, transfection and transduction methods, basic molecular biology techniques (with genotyping as a key responsibility), and sample preparation for downstream analyses (e.g. microscopy, metabolomics, protein and nucleic acids) is essential. A strong mechanistic background and expertise in CRISPR-Cas9 techniques is highly desirable. Competence in IT, including spreadsheets, word processing, database management, email and web-based applications, is also required.
What we offer
This is a full-time, fixed-term position until the end of December 2025, with the possibility of extension. A six-month trial period will apply. The salary follows the job requirement scheme for specialist and support staff under the Finnish universities' salary system and includes a personal salary component. The starting gross salary ranges from €2600 to €3200 per month, depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers. The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.
How to apply
Applications should be submitted through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the "Apply now" button.
Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications by using the Employee Login button.
Please send your application with following enclosures:
- A complete CV, including previous and current positions
- A motivation letter
The closing date for applications is 15th of December 2024.
For further information on the position, please contact Associate Professor Thomas McWilliams (thomas.mcwilliams-at-helsinki.fi).
About the Faculty of Medicine
The Faculty of Medicine promotes high-quality scientific research and provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology, and logopedics, as well as an international Master's Programme in Translational Medicine. In addition to its teaching and research activities, the faculty serves as a significant expert organization in the healthcare sector and contributes to ethical discourse in the field.
Together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), the Faculty of Medicine constitutes an academic medical centre recognized for excellence in international comparisons.