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Postdoctoral researcher positions in the research field of nuclear receptors and metabolic diseases

Published date more than one year ago
Posted: more than one year ago
Company University of Oulu
Company: University of Oulu
End date Sept. 12, 2019
Due date: Sept. 12, 2019
Location Oulu
Location: Oulu

The University of Oulu (UO) is an international scientific community, with 16 000 students and approximately 3 000 employees. The strengths of the University are wide multidisciplinary study/research interests, modern research, study environment, and good cooperation with international educational and research institutes. UO has newly decided upon its focus areas of research http://www.oulu.fi/university/node/35051 

Job Description and Location

Applications are invited for a 4-year postdoctoral researcher position (starting 1.1.2020) in a Biocenter Oulu research project headed by Professors Jukka Hakkola, Research unit of Biomedicine (Pharmacology and toxicology) https://www.oulu.fi/university/researcher/jukka-hakkola, and Janne Hukkanen, Research unit of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu.

Our research group (https://www.oulu.fi/mrc/research-groups/hakkola-hukkanen) focuses on nuclear receptors sensing changes in chemical environment. Pregnane X receptor (PXR) is a major xenobiotic-sensing nuclear receptor, which was originally identified to regulate expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes and drug transporters. However, during the last ten years several laboratories have uncovered broader role of PXR in regulation of several fundamental cellular functions including glucose and lipid metabolism. In the current project we aim to understand the role of the environmental xenosensor PXR as a disease mechanism and therapeutic target in metabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease and hypercholesterolemia. This project uses methods of experimental biomedical research and clinical studies.

The research group is international and has strong experience on both doctoral and postdoctoral training. We have modern, up-to-date research environment and are supported by external research funding from the Academy of Finland and the European Union.

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct his/her own research project under the supervision of the research group leaders. In addition to the own research work, the duties also include supervision of PhD and undergraduate students. Also teaching in the faculty curriculum may be requested. The post doc will also participate and be trained in acquiring research funding.

Requirements

The successful applicant should be highly motivated with strong interest in basic and translational research and hold a PhD degree in a relevant field, for example biochemistry, molecular or cell biology, medical science or another related field. Candidates whose PhD thesis has been submitted by the application deadline may also be considered. We expect documented experience in experimental research including molecular and cell biological methods. Experience in in vivo animal work or bioinformatics is considered an advantage. Fluent oral and written English skills as well as good communication and teamwork skills are required. Experience in writing scientific publications, potential in acquiring supplementary funding and teaching experience will be taken as merits.

When assessing the applicant’s qualifications, issues to be considered will include scientific experience and publications, supervision experience, activity in the scientific community and familiarity with the relevant research field.

The position is filled for a four-year period, beginning on 1 January 2020. A six-month trial period is applied in the position.

Salary

The salary is in accordance with the University salary system (for teaching and research personnel) the demand level 5. In addition to the basic salary, supplementary salary will be given for personal achievement and performance, the sum rising to a maximum of 50 % of the basic salary level for the post.

Application

Applications must be submitted using the electronic application form by September 12th, 2019, 24:00 (Finnish local time). Applications sent by email will not be considered. Application must contain the following attachments as separate pdf files:

  1. Complete CV containing contact information of at least two referees.
  2. Motivation letter (maximum 2 page) describing prior knowledge, experience and merits in the field as well as research interests and career plans.
  3. Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned electronic copies of diplomas and transcripts of the records of relevant previous degrees. If the original documents are not in English, Finnish or Swedish, each document must be accompanied by an official certified translation into English or Finnish.
  4. Full publication list
  5. Maximum two recommendation letters by previous supervisors may be provided (optional, not required)

Other relevant information

The eligible applicants fitting best in the research profile expected for the position may be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified when the selection process is completed. A six-months trial period will be effective in the beginning of a contract.

Contact for further information

Research group leaders:

Professor Jukka Hakkola, jukka.hakkola@oulu.fi

Professor Janne Hukkanen, janne.hukkanen@oulu.fi

Tiina Hurskainen, HR Manager, tiina.hurskainen@oulu.fi