PhD Opportunity in Cell and Molecular Biology, Microbiology, and Exercise Physiology at University of Jyväskylä University of Jyväskylä in Finland

PhD opportunity in Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, within the Department of Biological and Environmental Science. This is a full-time doctoral researcher position starting on 1 October 2026 (or as soon as possible after that) for up to 3.5 years.

The project is part of the university’s strategic profiling area Ageing, Environment and Functioning and is supervised by Prof. Lotta-Riina Sundberg and Prof. Riikka Kivelä. The research is interdisciplinary and connects cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, physiology, exercise physiology, and translational biomedical research. The doctoral candidate will study how nature-derived bioactive compounds and physical exercise support healthy endothelial and mucosal barriers and reduce the risk of infectious and non-communicable diseases.

Research activities include identifying novel bioactive molecules with therapeutic potential, investigating molecular pathways behind exercise-induced health benefits, performing experiments with microbial and mammalian cell culture systems, and possibly extending work to experimental animal models.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have or be close to completing a Master’s degree in Cell & Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Physiology, or a closely related life sciences field. Strong expertise in cell and molecular biology is expected. Experience or interest in microbiology, bioinformatics, metabolism, or cardiovascular biology is desirable. Good English skills, teamwork, independence, and problem-solving ability are required.

Funding is provided through a salaried employment contract. The starting salary is approximately €2550/month gross, with progression according to thesis work and the Finnish University Salary System. A holiday bonus is included, and relocation support is available for international applicants.

Application deadline: 9 August 2026. Apply via the University of Jyväskylä recruitment portal with a CV, motivation letter (max 2 pages), and degree certificate(s). After selection, the successful applicant must separately apply for postgraduate study rights at the Faculty of Mathematics and Science.