University of Helsinki
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Fully Funded PhD in Protein Synthesis and Inhibitor Discovery at the University of Helsinki University of Helsinki in Finland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Cell Biology
Funding
Fully funded for a maximum of 44 months, or three years and eight months if starting in January 2027. The starting gross monthly salary is approximately EUR 2,500–2,700, based on job demand level 2 in the Finnish university teaching and research salary system, with the final amount depending on qualifications, doctoral-study stage and personal performance. The position includes employee benefits and occupational healthcare.
Deadline
Nov 13, 2026
Country
Finland
University
University of Helsinki
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About this position
The University of Helsinki is recruiting a doctoral researcher for the project Inhibiting Protein Synthesis – Old, New, Borrowed, Blue at the Viikki Campus in Helsinki, Finland. The project is based in the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Department of Molecular and Integrative Bioscience, and is led by Principal Investigator Sarah O’Keefe with co-supervision from Brendan Battersby.
The research investigates how proteins are made and how protein-synthesis machinery can be inhibited for therapeutic benefit. Early protein synthesis involves translation on ribosomes, the movement of newly formed polypeptides across membranes, and their insertion through translocons or insertases. The project will combine cellular biology and chemical biology with cell-free protein synthesis, cryo-electron microscopy, gene editing and orthogonal high-throughput screening.
The doctoral researcher will seek breakthrough protein-synthesis inhibitors and explore opportunities to repurpose existing compounds. By expanding the chemical and biological space of protein synthesis and its inhibition, the work aims to generate new tools for studying protein biogenesis and identify approaches relevant to infectious diseases and cancer.
The O’Keefe Lab integrates biochemistry, cell biology, cryoEM and small molecules to discover new mechanisms, methods and drug candidates connected with protein synthesis. The researcher will work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment with access to the local cryoEM Unit, High Throughput Biomedicine Unit and Finnish Genome Editing Centre. The research network also includes chemists and computational physicists in Finland, the United States and Japan, as well as opportunities for international research visits to the University of Leeds.
As the lab’s first doctoral researcher, the successful candidate will receive close, individualised mentorship from the Principal Investigator and help shape the lab’s scientific techniques and culture while developing multidisciplinary research skills.
Funding details
Fully funded for a maximum of 44 months, or three years and eight months if starting in January 2027. The starting gross monthly salary is approximately EUR 2,500–2,700, based on job demand level 2 in the Finnish university teaching and research salary system, with the final amount depending on qualifications, doctoral-study stage and personal performance. The position includes employee benefits and occupational healthcare.
What's required
Applicants should have a Master’s degree, or be due to complete one before the start date, in biology, biological sciences, biochemistry, pharmacy or another relevant field. Medicinal chemists with strong research experience and a commitment to switch fields may also apply. Excellent written and spoken English, independence, problem-solving ability, willingness to master new skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are required. Applicants should be ambitious, collegial, proactive and motivated to pursue multidisciplinary research. Research experience in industry or a research-intensive academic laboratory, or knowledge of protein synthesis, is meritorious. The successful applicant must obtain the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the six-month probationary period.
How to apply
Submit the application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system using “Apply now” by 13 November 2026 at 23:59 Helsinki time. Upload one PDF named lastname_firstname containing the cover letter, CV, two referees’ contact details, Master’s diploma or graduation timeline, transcript with grading-system explanation, and answers to the four project questions. Applications by email or after the deadline will not be evaluated.
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ApplyKite TwinLearns as you applyMake your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.