Postdoctoral Opportunities

Full Job Description

Scientist / Senior Scientist in Mass Spectrometry-based Proteome Research

The Helsinki Proteomics Center (HPC) is a state-of-the-art technology platform operating across two life-science campuses at the University of Helsinki. Dedicated to advancing proteomics research, we provide cutting-edge services and collaborate with researchers to explore protein functions, interactions, and dynamics. This position is based at the Viikki Proteomics Unit, which is part of the Helsinki Proteomics Center.

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist / Senior Scientist to join the Viikki Proteomics Unit. This is primarily a hands-on core-facility position: the appointee will help deliver reliable proteomics services, support facility users, maintain robust daily operations, and develop methods that can be implemented across the HPC service portfolio. The role is therefore best suited to a collaborative scientist who is motivated by enabling the research of others as well as advancing proteomics technology.

Key Responsibilities

Research and Development

• Investigate and evaluate new sample preparation protocols for bottom-up proteomics, including protein digestion, peptide clean-up, enrichment of post-translationally modified peptides, and handling sub-nanogram protein quantities.

• Optimize protocols for sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility, and evaluate new MS data-acquisition and analysis workflows for implementation as new or improved HPC services.

Operational Support

• Perform day-to-day technical operation of the high-resolution LC-MS/MS systems.

• Prepare customer and internal samples using validated facility protocols.

• Participate in routine maintenance of existing equipment, quality-control checks, and troubleshooting.

• Maintain accurate records of instrument usage, downtime, maintenance, and experimental procedures.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with HPC colleagues to maintain an efficient, safe, and well-organized core-facility laboratory, and coordinate priorities to deliver high-quality results within agreed timelines.

• Advise facility users on experimental design, sample requirements, available technologies, instrument capabilities and limitations, and realistic expected outcomes.

• Prepare clear reports, discuss results and appropriate next steps with users, and provide evidence-based recommendations to HPC leadership on new platforms, methods, and technologies.

Administrative Duties

• Oversee inventory and coordinate procurement to ensure uninterrupted operation of the Viikki Proteomics Unit.

• Work with service contract providers to restore operations of the LC-MS/MS system promptly after system downtime.

Qualifications

Educational Background

• Master's degree required; Ph.D. preferred in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related life science discipline.

• 2+ years of research experience with proteomic or related technologies.

• Strong background in protein chemistry is required.

• Experience in mass spectrometry-based proteomics is highly preferred.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in using both vendor-specific and publicly available software tools for MS data analysis.

• Detail-oriented both at the lab bench and with record-keeping.

• Good command of English, both written and spoken.

• Excellent time management and organizational abilities.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, service-oriented team environment.

• Willingness to learn, standardize, document, and routinely apply a range of sample preparation protocols.

• Ability to provide demonstrations and training to facility users with varying levels of proteomics experience.

• Motivation to expand data-analysis expertise and contribute to user support and reporting.

What We Offer

• The salary is based on the Finnish university salary system, depending on qualifications and experience.

• The University of Helsinki provides occupational health services, staff well-being resources, access to sports facilities, and extensive opportunities for professional development.

• You will join a world-class research community, work with cutting-edge technologies, and collaborate with leading experts in the field.

Employment is expected to start on November-December, 2026, or as agreed. The position is initially offered for two years with the possibility of extension. A 6-month trial period will be applied. The formal title of the position will be determined according to the appointee's qualifications and experience: Research Coordinator/Postdoctoral Researcher / Specialist (for an appointee with a MSc).

How to Apply Applications should be submitted through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System by clicking the "Apply now" button. Please include the following enclosures:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV), including a list of publications and manuscripts in preparation

• Cover Letter (maximum one page) describing your research interests, motivation, and suitability for the position

• Reference Contacts

Applicants must have completed their Master's degree before the start of employment. Application deadline: September 30, 2026

For further information on the position, please contact Dr. Markku Varjosalo at markku.varjosalo@helsinki.fi.

The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of any gender, age, linguistic or cultural background, or minority group.

About the University of Helsinki The University of Helsinki is Finland's leading multidisciplinary research university. Together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), it forms an internationally recognized academic medical center. HiLIFE was established in 2017 and supports high quality life science research across the University campuses and faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths and new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for researchers to solve grand challenges in health, food, and environment. HiLIFE coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences and provides research-based interdisciplinary training.

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