Johanna Ivaska

The Cell Adhesion and Cancer Group (Ivaska Lab) at the Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku, Finland, is recruiting talented researchers for postdoctoral and bioinformatician positions. The group focuses on uncovering the mechanisms of cancer invasion and tissue barrier function using advanced biological and computational approaches. The bioinformatician role involves working at the interface of computation and biology, analyzing large multi-omics and imaging datasets, developing analytical pipelines, and collaborating with experimental scientists. This position is funded by an ERC Advanced Grant, ensuring a fully funded research environment. Two postdoctoral researcher positions are available to explore tissue barriers under normal and disease conditions. The research utilizes organoids, in vivo models, biophysics, and cutting-edge imaging to investigate cancer invasion and tissue barrier function. The Ivaska Lab offers a collaborative, international culture and access to state-of-the-art tools and methodologies. Applicants should hold a PhD in biology, biomedical sciences, bioinformatics, or a related field. Experience with multi-omics data, imaging, analytical pipeline development, and experimental collaboration is preferred. For postdoctoral roles, expertise in organoids, in vivo models, biophysics, and advanced imaging is desirable. The University of Turku provides competitive salary and benefits, with funding secured for these positions. To apply, candidates should submit their application online via the University of Turku vacancies portal by February 20, 2025. The anticipated start date is April 2026, with flexibility. For further information, applicants can contact Professor Johanna Ivaska at [email protected] and review the lab website at ivaskalab.utu.fi. This opportunity is ideal for researchers interested in cancer biology, cell adhesion, bioinformatics, and computational biology, seeking to join a world-class research team in Finland.

The University of Turku invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position in bioinformatics within the Cell Adhesion and Cancer Group at Turku Bioscience Centre. This interdisciplinary group, led by Professor Johanna Ivaska, is renowned for its innovative cancer research and collaborative environment. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in analysing and integrating omics-based biological datasets, translating complex data into actionable biological insights, and developing analytical pipelines accessible to biologists. The group comprises 18 international researchers, including postdocs, PhD and Master’s students, technicians, and support staff, fostering skill development, cross-disciplinary learning, and scientific independence. The position is part of the ERC Advanced Grant project 'BorderControl', which aims to elucidate the molecular signals enabling cancer cells to cross tissue borders. Research focuses on spatial profiling of the tumour–stroma interface to identify receptor–ligand interactions regulating invasion, using advanced techniques such as microfluidics-based imaging, single-cell and spatial profiling (scRNA-seq, mass cytometry, spatial transcriptomics), synthetic biology, high-throughput screening, and multicellular migration platforms. Clinical relevance is assessed through patient material and designer tissue microarrays, with close collaboration with clinicians and external experts. Key responsibilities include developing and applying machine learning methods to biomedical questions, analysing and modelling diverse omics datasets, integrating data from spatial transcriptomics, scRNA-seq, bulk RNA-seq, proteomics, and immunohistochemistry, and analysing patient cohort samples including microscopy images. The role requires keeping abreast of rapidly evolving methods, collaborating with biomedical researchers, publishing in international journals, and participating in national and international networks. Applicants must have a doctoral degree in bioinformatics, computer science, data science, or a related field; biologists trained in bioinformatics are also eligible. Candidates nearing completion of their doctoral studies may be considered as project researchers. Essential skills include experience with biological datasets, programming (R, Python), independent and collaborative work, initiative, self-direction, and excellent English communication. Advantageous skills include machine learning, deep learning, method development, cell biology, relevant publications, and advanced microscopy/image analysis. The position offers a fixed-term contract from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028, with possible extension. Salary ranges from 3600–3800 €/month for postdoctoral researchers and 2800–3200 €/month for project researchers, determined by the Finnish university collective agreement. The University of Turku provides a top-level research environment, access to cutting-edge technologies, flexible working hours, support for professional development, and excellent networking opportunities. The institution values equality and diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. Applications must be submitted as a single PDF in English, including a motivation letter, CV, degree certificates, contact details of three referees, and any other relevant documents. Apply via the online application link. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is recommended. For further information, contact Professor Johanna Ivaska or HR Specialist Paula Luoma.