Researcher in Biology

University of Helsinki

Institution: Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), HiLIFE, University of Helsinki
In Partnership With: European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)
Positions Available: 1–2
Appointment Type: Independent Group Leader (Early-stage PI)
Initial Term: 5 years, with possibility of a 4-year extension following evaluation
Application Deadline: 15 March 2026 (23:59 Europe/Helsinki time)
Anticipated Start: During 2026
Position ID: 4719

Overview

The Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), part of the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE) at the University of Helsinki, in partnership with EMBL, invites applications for FIMM–EMBL Group Leader positions in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence for Molecular and Health Data.

We seek outstanding early-stage group leaders with strong international experience who will establish independent research programmes at FIMM and advance cutting-edge statistical, machine learning, and AI methods in molecular medicine and population health.

Research Focus Areas

We welcome candidates working at the interface of:

  • Statistical methodology

  • Machine learning and artificial intelligence

  • Large-scale molecular and health data

Applicants may focus on either methodological innovation or transformative application of advanced methods.

1. Methods Development

Designing novel statistical, ML, or AI methodologies for biomedical data, including but not limited to:

  • Causal inference and clinical prediction

  • Representation learning for multimodal biological data

  • Uncertainty quantification, robustness, and calibration

  • Interpretable, explainable, and trustworthy AI

  • Scalable methods for population-scale cohorts and biobanks

  • Integration of molecular, imaging, clinical, and text data

2. Innovative Applications

Applying state-of-the-art analytical methods to:

  • Large population cohorts and biobanks (e.g. FinnGen)

  • Genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and multi-omics data

  • Electronic health records and national health registries

  • Disease risk prediction, stratification, and progression modelling

  • Biomarker discovery and therapeutic target identification

About FIMM

FIMM is a leading international molecular medicine research institute with approximately 300 researchers and scientific staff from over 30 nationalities. The institute focuses on human genomics, precision medicine, AI, and data science in health, with a strong emphasis on translational research.

FIMM hosts globally unique resources, including:

  • FinnGen (520,000 genomes linked to lifetime health registry data)

  • Nationwide longitudinal health registries and EHRs

  • iCAN flagship discovery platform

  • High-performance computing via LUMI supercomputer

  • Secure cloud-based analysis environments (FIMM Sandbox, FinnGen Sandbox)

FIMM is part of the Nordic EMBL Partnership for Molecular Medicine and the EU-LIFE Community, offering strong international integration.

Candidate Profile

Successful candidates will:

  • Hold an MD/PhD, PhD, or equivalent in data science, statistics, bioinformatics, computer science, or a related field

  • Have completed postdoctoral training with substantial international experience

  • Demonstrate a strong track record of high-impact publications

  • Show clear potential for research independence and leadership

  • Be able to leverage FIMM’s data resources, infrastructure, and translational networks

  • Be eager to engage in multidisciplinary collaborations across FIMM, Helsinki, and internationally

The position is intended for early-stage independent researchers, typically at a career level comparable to ERC Starting Grant eligibility.

What We Offer

  • Independent group leader position with substantial institutional support

  • Competitive start-up package including:

    • Group leader salary

    • Personnel support

    • Consumables

    • Modern laboratory and office facilities

  • Access to world-class data, infrastructure, and technology platforms

  • Opportunities for future tenure-track assistant/associate professor appointments through HiLIFE and life science faculties

  • An exceptional research environment within a society known for its strong support of science, quality of life, and inclusivity

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online via the University of Helsinki recruitment system by 15 March 2026.

Required application materials (PDF):

  1. Cover letter (max. 2 pages) summarising:

    • Career trajectory

    • Key research achievements

    • Future research vision

  2. Curriculum Vitae

  3. Publication list, highlighting the five most significant publications

  4. Research plan (max. 5 pages), including:

    • Scientific objectives

    • Methodological approach

    • Expected translational, medical, or public health impact

  5. Names and contact details of three referees

Selection process:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews with an international Evaluation Committee and a site visit (tentatively scheduled for week 21, 18–22 May 2026).

Further Information

  • Scientific enquiries:
    Prof. Samuli Ripatti
    Director, FIMM
    samuli.ripatti(at)helsinki.fi

  • Recruitment system support:
    recruitment(at)helsinki.fi

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Helsinki and FIMM are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background.

Apply