Riikka Kivelä

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.

University of Jyväskylä is recruiting a Doctoral Researcher / PhD student in Cell and Molecular Biology for a joint project in the Department of Biological and Environmental Science. The project combines cell and molecular biology , microbiology , and molecular exercise physiology , with research on preventive approaches that support health. The doctoral researcher will investigate nature-based bioactive molecules and molecular mediators of the health benefits of exercise, including their synergistic effects. Experimental work may involve microbial and cell cultures and possibly experimental animal models. The position is linked to the University’s profiling area Ageing, Environment and Functioning and involves collaboration between Prof. Lotta-Riina Sundberg and Prof. Riikka Kivelä at the University of Jyväskylä. Eligibility highlights: applicants should have or be about to obtain a suitable Master’s degree, have permission for postgraduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä, and show strong expertise in cell and molecular biology. Familiarity with microbiology, bioinformatics and/or physiology is preferred. Good English skills are required, along with independence, problem-solving ability, teamwork, and strong communication skills. Funding and terms: this is a fixed-term doctoral researcher employment for up to 3.5 years, starting 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible after that. The starting salary is approximately €2550/month gross , with progression-based revision and a holiday bonus. Relocation support is available for international hires. Application deadline: 9 August 2026. Applicants must submit a CV, a short motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), and the highest degree certificate in English and PDF format through the recruitment system. After selection, the successful candidate must separately apply for postgraduate study rights.