Postdoctoral Researcher/Project Researcher, Molecular Dynamics Simulations - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The University of Eastern Finland is inviting applications for a a Postdoctoral Researcher/Project Researcher position on the Kuopio Campus. The position will be filled  from 1 April 2024 onwards (or as agreed). Please find more information below and submit your application by 8 March 2024.

Role and salary 

As our new Postdoctoral Researcher/Project Researcher, you will be working in the School of Pharmacy at the Faculty of Health Sciences in the field of molecular modeling, with a specific emphasis on Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations and a preference for expertise in protein-RNA simulations. We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified candidate with a strong background in computational chemistry and a deep understanding of MD methodologies. The position is located in Kuopio, Finland.  

As our new Postdoctoral Researcher/Project Researcher, your main responsibilities will include:

• Conducting advanced MD simulations to investigate dynamic molecular processes.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to explore protein-RNA interactions.
• Analysing simulation data and contributing to the development of novel simulation methodologies.
• Publishing research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.

As a Postdoctoral Researcher/Project Researcher, you will be part of the DrugTech Research Community, specialising in Drug Discovery and Delivery Technologies. This multidisciplinary team, including experts from pharmaceutical disciplines, medicine, chemistry, and physics, conducts research in ocular, CNS, and cardiovascular indications. In addition to normal research facilities we are also able to use world class supercomputing resources via CSC (csc.fi). The group aims to develop new candidate drugs and delivery systems through collaborative and interdisciplinary efforts, promoting synergy in research and the training of junior researchers.

The position will be filled for a fixed term until 31 December 2026, with a preferable start date in April 2024 or as agreed. The position will be filled for a fixed term due to it pertaining to a specific project task. A probationary period is applied to all new members of the staff.  

The salary of the position is determined in accordance with the salary system of the Finnish universities. The salary comprises two components: a job requirement component and a personal performance component. In this position, the job requirement component is 3,213.55-3,747.44 euros/month, based on levels 5–6 of the job requirement chart for teaching and research staff. The personal performance component can be a minimum of 6 % and a maximum of 50 % of the above-mentioned sum.  Depending on the personal performance component, the salary will be approximately 3 534 – 4 497 €/month at the beginning of the employment.
 
Our requirements and expectations 

Requirements

• A doctoral degree in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Computational Biology, or a related field.
• The doctoral degree may not have been completed more than five years ago at the time of accepting the position (a net period of time, which does not include parental leaves, military service, etc.). If the person to be appointed has received a doctoral researcher more than five years ago, the position will be filled as a Project Researcher.
• Strong expertise in MD simulations; a focus on protein-RNA systems will be considered an advantage.
• Demonstrated proficiency in relevant simulation software (e.g., GROMACS, AMBER).
• At least basic programming skills (Python, C, or Fortran) for analysis and script development.
• A proven track record of scientific publications in reputable journals.   

Expectations/advantages

• experience in project management   
• experience in the supervision of academic theses  
• oral and written presentation skills in English

Your benefits 

You will have access to the university’s staff benefits, including  

• opportunity for flexible multi-location work
• extensive occupational health care  
• broad selection of staff training
• staff discount on lunch in our campus restaurants, as well as on a range of other services  
• affordable sports services and tax-free bike benefit 

Please read more in the Work at UEF section on our website.  

You will have an opportunity to work in an interesting/meaningful/diverse role as part of our international, creative, participatory and inclusive academic community.    

Enjoy your life in Finland! Known for its cleanliness, welfare know-how, modern technology and superb education system, Finland is an exotic and safe country to work in. Please visit the Life in Finland section on our website to learn more.    

How to apply? 

Submit your application by using our electronic application form no later than 8 March 2024 by 24:00 (midnight) Finnish time (UTC+2)

 Please note that you must include the following appendices in your application: 

• CV (Template for CV, www-page)  
• a list of publications (Instructions, www-page) 
• a copy of the applicant's highest academic degree certificate, and copies of certificates / diplomas relating to your language proficiency, if not indicated in the academic degree diploma  
• a brief cover letter with statement of interest and a short research statement (max. 3 pages) 
• other documents to demonstrate the applicant’s merits for the position   

Questions? 

 For further information on the position, please contact 

Professor Antti Poso, antti.poso@uef.fi, +358 40 355 2426, Academy Reaserch Fellow Astrid Subrizi, astrid.subrizi@uef.fi, +358 40 355 2093, or Senior Researcher Piia Bartos, piia.bartos@uef.fi

For further information on the application procedure, please contact HR Secretary, Sari Palviainen, email. sari.palviainen@uef.fi