Institution: Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki
Start Date: 17 November 2025 (or upon agreement)
Duration: 3–12 months, depending on agreement
Application Deadline: 30 November 2025 (rolling basis)
Position Type: Undergraduate research assistant or Master’s thesis worker
The Hakala Research Group studies mechanosensitive membrane microdomains to understand how protein-membrane interactions regulate cellular processes and how their dysfunction contributes to disease.
Methods and Techniques Used:
Structural biology
Biochemistry and in vitro reconstitution
Cell biology
Fluorescence microscopy
The group emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and cross-disciplinary research in a stimulating international environment.
Strong motivation to learn new methods and work both independently and collaboratively
Prior experience in:
Molecular cloning
Protein biochemistry
Cell culture techniques
Fluorescence microscopy (advantageous)
Good oral and written communication in English
Team-oriented, proactive mindset
Hands-on training in cutting-edge techniques
Work in a diverse, international, multidisciplinary environment
Access to University of Helsinki services: healthcare, insurance, sports, and professional development
Salary: €2,000–2,443/month (per Finnish university collective agreement)
Applications should be submitted as one PDF via the University recruitment system and include:
Motivation letter (max 1 page) – why you’re interested and how you’re qualified
Curriculum vitae (CV)
Bachelor’s degree certificate and record of studies
Optional: Names and contact information of referees
Contact: Academy Research Fellow Dr. Markku Hakala – markku.hakala@helsinki.fi
The University of Helsinki is a leading multidisciplinary research university. The Institute of Biotechnology (BI) is part of HiLIFE, offering state-of-the-art facilities for:
Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM)
Light microscopy
Sequencing and proteomics
More info: https://www.helsinki.fi/hilife/bi
This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in molecular and cell biology while contributing to high-impact research in mechanobiology and membrane microdomain function.
In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com