Doctoral Researcher in Identification of Genetic and Host Markers for Severe Infection (EU Doctoral Network DETECTIVE) University of Turku in Finland

Doctoral Researcher position at the University of Turku in the EU Doctoral Network DETECTIVE

This fully funded PhD project is hosted by the University of Turku, Finland, within the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network DETECTIVE (Data-driven Excellence in Training of Epidemiological, Clinical, Technological and Innovative Virus Experts). The network trains doctoral candidates across Europe in virology, genomics, epidemiology, diagnostics, bioinformatics, and public health preparedness.

The specific project focuses on identifying genetic and host markers linked to susceptibility to, and severity of, viral respiratory and neurological infections. The doctoral researcher will integrate transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and genetic data from large clinical cohorts to discover biomarkers and genetic risk factors associated with severe disease. The work is connected to molecular epidemiology, host-pathogen interactions, and multi-omics analysis, with the goal of improving risk prediction and epidemic preparedness.

The position is based in Turku, Finland, starts on 1 March 2027, and is funded for 36 months. The role includes international secondments at Bioname in Finland and the University Medical Centre Groningen in the Netherlands, giving experience in both academic and industrial environments. The candidate will contribute to Work Package 2 of DETECTIVE and collaborate with international partners across the consortium.

Supervision will be provided by Professor Heli Harvala and Professor Peter Simmonds at the University of Turku, with additional scientific mentoring from Eero Vesterinen (Bioname) and Dr Jelte Helfferich (University Medical Centre Groningen). The network also offers training schools in virology, bioinformatics, epidemiology, and translational virology, alongside mentoring and career development support.

Eligibility highlights include a relevant Master’s degree, eligibility for doctoral studies at the University of Turku, strong English communication skills, and compliance with MSCA mobility rules. Applicants must not have lived or worked in Finland for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment, and must not already hold a doctoral degree.

Funding is provided through MSCA Doctoral Networks and includes a monthly living allowance of €4,010 subject to the Finland correction coefficient, a mobility allowance of €710 per month, and a family allowance of €660 per month where applicable. The application deadline is 8 October 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Helsinki).

To apply, candidates must submit their application through the University of Turku recruitment system and complete the DETECTIVE online application form. Required documents include a CV, motivation letter, degree certificate(s), transcript of records, referee details, and any optional supporting documents.