PhD Position in Biology

University of Helsinki

Institution: University of Helsinki, Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE)
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Contract: Initially 3 years, with possibility of continuation as an open-ended contract
Salary: €3,300–4,300/month, depending on experience
Application Deadline: 30 November 2025

Facility Overview

  • Part of INSTRUCT-HILIFE structural biology platform: Cryo-EM, protein crystallization, and biocomplex purification.

  • Current equipment: 200 kV Talos Arctica with Falcon 4i detector.

  • Upcoming upgrades: 300 kV microscope and cryo-FIB/SEM installation in 2027.

  • National and European service center role under FINSTRUCT and INSTRUCT-ERIC networks.

Responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain the cryo-EM facility.

  • Sample preparation using Leica GP2 or Cryosol Vitrojet.

  • Support users in structural biology projects, including data collection and troubleshooting.

  • Collaborate with team members and users on research projects.

  • Contribute to service expansion, including preparation for upcoming 300 kV and cryo-FIB/SEM installations.

Candidate Profile

Required:

  • PhD (or M.Sc. with strong cryo-EM experience).

  • Experience with modern 200 kV (preferably 300 kV) cryo-electron microscopes.

  • Skills in cryo-EM data processing, analysis, and troubleshooting.

  • Strong teamwork and service orientation.

Desirable:

  • Experience managing cryo-EM infrastructure.

  • Publications in single particle cryo-EM or tomography.

  • Experience with cryo-FIB/SEM.

  • Collaborative research on user projects.

Application Requirements

  • Motivation letter (1 page)

  • CV (max 3 pages)

  • List of publications

  • Contact information of 2 references

  • Submit as a single PDF via the University’s recruitment system

Contact for inquiries:
Dr. Tommi Kajander – tommi.kajander@helsinki.fi

Highlights / Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in a leading cryo-EM facility with national and European impact.

  • Exposure to top-end structural biology research and infrastructure upgrades.

  • Supportive international research environment at HiLIFE.

  • Finland: family-friendly, high quality of life, affordable education and healthcare.

Apply