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Research Assistant
Research Assistant in Clinical Genetics, Rare Skeletal Diseases Part-time
Research Assistant in Clinical Genetics, Rare Skeletal Diseases
Do you want to contribute to top quality medical research?
The Research Assistant position is based in the Clinical Genetics research group at the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery (MMK), led by Professor Outi Mäkitie and Professor Richard Rosenquist Brabdell. The group focuses on identifying the genetic causes and molecular mechanisms underlying rare skeletal diseases. The group works closely with the Metabolic Bone Disease group at the University of Helsinki. The employment is a temporary employment for 5 months, July – October, 2026.
Your Mission
We aim to recruit a highly motivated Researcher Assistant with a master's degree, and with a foundational background in molecular genetics, rare skeletal diseases, and molecular and cell biology. The selected candidate is expected to support our research work that focuses on identifying novel genetic causes of skeletal disorders characterized by osteoporosis, abnormal mineral homeostasis, short stature, or skeletal deformities, and on elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which the genetic defects lead to disease.
The research involves patients and families affected by rare skeletal diseases. We primarily use high-throughput sequencing technologies to identify the disease-causing variants, followed by functional validations through different in vitro approaches, including advanced cell culture, droplet digital PCR, quantitative real-time PCR, and western blot.
Your Profile
Required Qualifications and Experience:
- Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related life science discipline.
- Experience in whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data analysis, variant interpretation, and candidate gene prioritization.
- Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques such as ddPCR, qPCR, Sanger sequencing, western blotting, and molecular validation of candidate variants.
- Experience in primary human cell culture, cell-based functional assays, and translational research.
- Familiarity with transdifferentiation approaches, IncuCyte-based live-cell imaging assays, and assessment of osteogenic differentiation and bone-forming potential.
- Experience or strong interest in rare skeletal disorders, functional genomics, and disease modelling is desirable.
- At least 6 months of research placement, internship, or hands-on research experience in a relevant academic, clinical, or industrial setting.
Personal Qualities:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills.
- Motivated, proactive, and eager to learn new experimental and computational techniques.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and collaborate in a dynamic research environment.
What Do We Offer?
A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.
Location: Solna
Application
KI applies individual and differentiated salary setting in accordance with our collective agreements RALS and RALS-T.
The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system. In this recruitment, you will apply with your CV without a personal letter. Instead, you will answer some questions about why you are applying for the job in the application form.