The University of Helsinki is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. HiLIFE Helsinki Institute of Life Science is a research institute that supports high quality life science research across the University campuses and faculties. The research activities at the Institute of Biotechnology consist of several research teams focusing on a specific area of cell and developmental biology, genomics and evolutionary biology, or structural biology. For more information, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-institute-of-biotechnology.

The “Vertebrate Evolution, Development and Regeneration” group of Research Director Nicolas Di-Poi at the Institute of Biotechnology investigates a number of questions central to our understanding of craniofacial evolution and development in vertebrates. As an innovative approach, the laboratory takes advantage of squamate reptile models (lizards and snakes) to elucidate the developmental genetic basis of vertebrate craniofacial diversity but also to provide an evolutionary context to developmental disorders. Reptiles represent key emerging model systems in Evo-Devo as they display an exceptional array of life-styles, ecologies, morphologies, and regenerative capacities.

All projects of the research group combine state-of-the-art methods such as cellular biology, molecular embryology, genetics, geometric morphometrics, epigenetics, comparative omics, and theoretical modeling, which offer an interdisciplinary environment for research collaboration and training (see e.g., Science Advances 7:eabj7912(2021), Nature Communication 12:6001 (2021), Nature Communication 10:5560 (2019), eLife 8:e47702 (2019), Nature Communication 9:376 (2018)). The exact project plan for the new positions will be discussed during interview.

The group is seeking for two dedicated and enthusiastic post-doctoral researchers holding a PhD degree in Cell & Developmental Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Bioinformatics, or similar. In addition, the Postdoctoral candidates will have a proven record of excellence in the above-mentioned research areas. Previous experience with multi-omics or 3D imaging data analysis and wet-lab work would be an asset for the positions. 

The salary is defined in accordance with the University salary system for teaching and research personnel (ca. 3200-3600 euros/month, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience). The positions are for a fixed-term of 2-3 years with possible extension. A trial period of six months will be applied. The positions will be filled as soon as possible, or as agreed with the selected candidates. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, supported access to high quality sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.

The deadline for the applications is March 31, 2023, but candidates will be considered until the positions are filled. For more information, please contact Nicolas Di-Poï (nicolas.di-poi(at)helsinki.fi).

To apply, please send (in a single pdf document of max 5 pages) a cover letter describing your previous research and motivation, your detailed CV including a list of publications, as well as contact information for at least 2 references (including PhD supervisor). Submit your application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the “Apply” link below.