Postdoctoral Researcher in translational biomedicine Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Researcher in Translational Biomedicine

The Kaukonen research group at the Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki invites applications for the position of a postdoctoral researcher for a fixed-term position of 12 months with possibility to extension (starting date negotiable). Our research group develops novel therapies for inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), combining human genetics, gene therapy, CRISPR-based gene editing, stem cell technologies, and translational disease modelling. We are particularly interested in developing treatments for retinal disorders prevalent in the Finnish population and advancing promising therapeutic strategies toward clinical application. The group collaborates extensively with national and international partners. Our work spans patient-derived cell models, retinal organoids, and animal models, creating a unique translational pipeline from gene discovery to therapy development. The successful candidate will join a growing research programme focused on:

• Developing gene therapy approaches for inherited retinal diseases.
• Designing and optimising CRISPR-based gene editing strategies, including base editing and prime editing.
• Generating and characterising patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models and retinal organoids.
• Evaluating therapeutic efficacy using molecular, cellular and functional assays.
• Contributing to translational studies that support future clinical development of retinal therapies.

Key responsibilities The postdoctoral researcher will:

• Lead and conduct independent research projects within the group's scientific programme.
• Develop and optimise retinal organoid and stem cell-based disease models.
• Design and evaluate gene therapy and gene editing constructs.
• Contribute to mentoring students and junior researchers.
• Publish findings in international peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences.
• Participate actively in grant writing and development of new research initiatives.
• Contribute to maintaining a collaborative and supportive research environment.

Your qualifications We are looking for an ambitious and highly motivated scientist with:

• A PhD in molecular biology, genetics, stem cell biology, biomedical sciences, ophthalmology, neuroscience, or a related field.
• Strong publication record relative to career stage.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Experience in at least one of the following areas: gene therapy or viral vector technologies, CRISPR genome editing, stem cell biology or iPSC technologies, retinal organoid generation and analysis, advanced molecular biology methods, animal models of inherited eye diseases.

What we offer The salary for the position will be based on level 5 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal performance. The annual gross salary is €46,000 – €55,000. There will be a six-month trial period for the position. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.

How to apply The application must be accompanied by the following documents in PDF format: a cover letter describing your motivation and suitability for the position (max 1 page); a curriculum vitae; a numbered list of publications (highlight three key items). Other attachments or certificates are not required at this point. The closing date for applications is 21 September 2026. Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system.

Further information about the position can be obtained from Dr. Maria Kaukonen (maria.kaukonen(at)helsinki.fi) or from the research group web page at https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/translational-eye-disease-genetics-and-gene-therapy. Further information about the recruitment process can be obtained from HR Specialist Mella Mattila (recruitment(at)helsinki.fi).

About us The Faculty of Medicine promotes high quality scientific research. It provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology and logopedics, and an international Master's Programme in Translational Medicine. It also offers psychotherapist education. In addition to its teaching and research activities, the faculty serves as a significant expert organisation in the healthcare sector and contributes to the discourse on ethics in the field.