The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world's leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. It operates on four campuses in Helsinki and at 17 other locations.

The Faculty of Pharmacy and the research group of Academy Research Fellow Dr. Virpi Talman invites applications for the position of

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER in regenerative cardiac pharmacology

The full-time position is available for a fixed-term from 1.2.2020 until 31.8.2022 with a possibility for a further 2-year extension. A later starting date is also possible by agreement.

The adult human heart cannot repair the tissue injury caused by myocardial infarction, and the loss of cardiomyocytes leads to the development of heart failure. Remarkably, zebrafish and neonatal rodents can regenerate their hearts. This involves generation of new blood vessels and proliferation of existing cardiomyocytes, but the mechanisms regulating these phenomena are not fully understood. By using e.g. human pluripotent stem cell-based models, our group aims to elucidate endogenous mechanisms of cardiac regeneration, identify new drug targets and develop small molecule compounds to promote heart regeneration.

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic early-career postdoctoral researcher for the project. The applicant is required to hold a PhD in cell biology, pharmacology, biomedicine, or a related field. You can apply even if you have not yet obtained the PhD degree but will defend in early 2020. In this case, please mention the expected graduation date in the cover letter. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are required, and prior experience in human pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation, 3D coculture models, high content analysis and genome editing are considered an advantage. The work will also include supervision of students as well as other teaching duties (at most 5% of annual working time). You should have a strong motivation for research in this field and possess the ability to carry out independent research.

The salary is based on level 5 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal work performance. The starting gross salary will be approximately 3400–3800 €/month. There will be a 6-month probation for the position.

To apply, please submit your application using the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on Apply for the position. Internal applicants must submit their applications through the SAP HR portal. Upload a single pdf file containing a one-page letter with a personal statement outlining your relevant work experience and motivation to work on this project; your CV and bibliography; and contact information for 2-3 references.

For informal inquiries, please contact Dr Virpi Talman virpi.talman(at)helsinki.fi, tel. +358 50 448 0768.

Technical support for using the recruitment system: rekrytointi (at) helsinki.fi.