Postdoctoral Researcher, Genetic Epidemiology and Omics of Aging University of Oulu in Finland

The University of Oulu, a leading multidisciplinary and international research university in Finland, is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Genetic Epidemiology and Omics of Aging. The position is based in the Research Unit for Population Health within the Faculty of Medicine, and is part of the Health Dimensions Theme 1: Multidimensional Mapping of Disease, a research initiative funded by the Research Council of Finland. The Health Dimensions programme unites researchers from diverse fields to explore the complex, multidimensional nature of human health, aiming to prevent chronic diseases and multimorbidity by advancing understanding of molecular, physiological, environmental, behavioural, and societal mechanisms across the life course.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research group with expertise in genetic epidemiology, biostatistics, gerontology, clinical medicine, and life-course health research. The team investigates biological determinants of aging, focusing on healthspan, frailty, and age-related multimorbidity. The postdoctoral researcher will work with large-scale genomic, biomarker, and nationwide register data from Finland and other Nordic countries to uncover genetic and molecular mechanisms shaping aging trajectories. The project involves analyzing omics data (genomics, epigenomics, metabolomics, proteomics) using Mendelian randomization and machine learning methods, combined with longitudinal health and healthcare information, to identify pathways influencing vulnerability, resilience, and health decline throughout life.

Key focus areas include investigating genetic and molecular determinants of frailty, healthspan, and age-related diseases; applying advanced statistical, bioinformatic, and machine learning methods to multi-omics and population-level data; and characterizing biological pathways and risk profiles contributing to heterogeneity in aging and vulnerability. Responsibilities encompass conducting advanced statistical and computational analyses in large and complex datasets, leading and contributing to scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, presenting research findings at scientific meetings and conferences, collaborating with group members and external partners, and contributing to research funding applications.

The University of Oulu offers a supportive and enthusiastic team environment, wellness benefits (ePassi), Buddy Programme, Spouse Network, and career development opportunities. The institution holds the HR Excellence in Research quality label, promoting flexibility and work-life balance. Finland is renowned for its high quality of life, safety, education system, and competitive economy.

Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field (genetic epidemiology, bioinformatics, statistics, data science, or other quantitative discipline), demonstrate strong interest in biological determinants of health in aging, possess solid analytical skills with statistical or programming software (R, Stata, Python), excellent English communication skills, a track record of scientific publications, and experience presenting research. Ability to take initiative, organize work, and collaborate in multidisciplinary teams is essential. Additional skills in Finnish, causal inference, machine learning, and teaching/supervision are appreciated.

The position is full-time, fixed-term for one year starting 01.09.2026 or as agreed. The starting gross salary is approximately 3700-4200 € per month (before taxes), based on Finnish university demand level chart (levels 5-6) plus up to 50% personal performance component. A trial period of 6 months applies. To apply, submit your application online by 15.05.2026, including a cover letter, CV, list of publications, and contact details of 2-3 referees. For further information, contact Associate Professor Juulia Jylhävä ([email protected]).