04 Postdoctoral Fellowship at University of Helsinki, Finland

The research in this project is focused on structural biology and biophysics of protein interactions in neuronal synapse function and in regulation of synapse loss in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by the complement system (see e.g Chernyaeva et al. EMBO Reports (2023)). We have long standing interest in complement research (e.g. Kajander et al. PNAS (2011); Bhattacharjee et al. J Biol Chem (2013)), and synaptic adhesion (e.g. Karki et al. Sci Reports (2020), Kim et al. PNAS (2022)). Other projects in the group focus currently e.g. on endoplasmic reticulum stress response regulation, and overall on the HiLIFE protein crystallization core facility operation and related projects.

The successful candidate will work on protein production and molecular interaction studies of complement proteins protective of neuronal synapses in AD, in collaboration with Dr. Karita Haapasalo’s group at the medical faculty. Specifically, protein-protein interactions of complement proteins and ApoE and synaptic proteins will be studied biophysically, biochemically, and by structural biology methods to visualize at the atomic level the protein interactions involved in the complement function at the synapse in disease states.

The research group of Dr. Tero Ahola, studying RNA virus replication and antivirals, in the Department of Microbiology, University of Helsinki, is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to study virus – host cell interactions in alphaviruses.

 

Viruses with RNA genomes cause most of the emerging and re-emerging infectious disease epidemics. Alphaviruses are mosquito-borne viruses causing febrile disease, found both in tropical and temperate regions. The project aims to establish a comprehensive view of host interaction during alphavirus replication by identifying host proteins that assist in virus replication. We aim to understand the specific actions that each host factor performs during virus replication. The proteins could assist e.g. in the modification of host cell membranes, as viruses rearrange the membranes to create protective replication vesicles. The host proteins important for virus replication are attractive new targets for antiviral drugs. The starting point of the project is a large proteomics dataset, so the project can be tailored together with the successful applicant based on their interest and prior experience. The work could include detailed virological, cell biological, or biochemical/structural characterization of the selected protein(s). We are supported by top-level local core facilities in proteomics, as well as light and electron microscopy and sequencing. The project entails collaboration with other teams and universities. 

The post-doctoral applicants must hold PhD in hematology, hematopoietic stem cell biology or a related field. Strong expertise in stem cell biology and experience working with mice is highly beneficial.

The PhD-student applicants should obtain MSc or related degree in the biology field latest by August 2024, and have a strong interest to carry out cutting-edge research. The positions will provide multiple opportunities for collaborations with potential lab visits abroad. An attitude to drive own research and work in an intra and inter team fashion is highly appreciated.

In return, the candidates are offered an access to a wide variety of methodologies and advanced techniques. The working language of the laboratory, the BI and HiLIFE is English and good communication skills in English are required.

The appointment is at the Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology as part of the Business Finland funded research project LifeFactFuture, which advances life science manufacturing, technology and anticipatory excellence; increased agility, circularity and sustainability, ability to establish competitive advantages from world-class AI-based solutions and efficient deployment of RegOps, visionary and foresight capabilities, adaptability, and real-option assessment ability related to rapidly altering, optimising and scaling up current production lines and advancing new production. The consortium consists of Finland’s major life science manufacturers, data and technology companies, the pharmaceutical regulatory authority, and the University of Turku and the University of Helsinki. Together, the consortium will provide a targeted push forward for advanced life science manufacturing.