Postdoctoral Researchers (m/f/d) in single-molecule analysis of RNA at the University of Regensburg,
Posted on April 18th, 2025
Caliskan Lab is seeking highly motivated postdoctoral fellows to illuminate dynamics of RNA molecules and their interplay with other factors during translational recoding events and transcription using state of the art single-molecule analysis and imaging tools. In this regard, we are especially interested in hiring candidates with proven expertise in single-nucleotide and single-molecule analysis of RNA complexes, transcription or translation (Pekarek et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 2024, Kibe et al., Nature Struct. Mol. Biol. 2025).
Job Qualifications:
- Ph.D. or equivalent in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics or a related field of the life sciences or engineering.
- Solid understanding of RNA biology, transcription and translation mechanisms.
- Experience in single molecule techniques (SM-FRET or optical tweezers).
- Experience with R, Python or MatLab for high-throughput data and image analysis.
- Excellent communication skills in English (German is a plus, but not mandatory)
- Strong publication record given career stage
- High motivation to contribute to an international and innovative workplace, problem solving and good organizational skills
Location:
Germany, Regensburg
Regensburg is a Medieval city in Baveria with a 2,000-year-old history and UNESCO World Heritage status, named as one of the top destinations in Central Europe. Here is some more information on culture and life in Regensburg.
The University of Regensburg, founded in 1962, has developed into a renowned center for RNA research in Germany with a strong tradition in international cooperation. Furthermore, with its twelve faculties, it has a broad variety of disciplines with excellent individual research, innovative, inter- and multidisciplinary research projects and an attractive quality-assured range of courses.
About us:
Caliskan Lab is fascinated with the RNA molecules that alter the triplet periodicity of the genetic code and how proteins impact the way an mRNA is being translated under stress conditions and infection. Key areas of our work include the analysis of structure and function of RNA molecules and RNA-protein complexes regulating translation and the fate of an RNA in the cell. To exploit RNA-based gene regulatory events, we employ a highly interdisciplinary and cutting-edge biochemical, molecular biology, and structural biology techniques, combining single-molecule fluorescence, optical tweezers and next-generation sequencing methods (Pekarek et al., Nucleic Acids Research, 2024; Kibe et al., Nature Struct. Mol. Biol. 2025; Zimmer and Kibe et al, Nature Comm. 2021; Hill, Pekarek et al., Nature Comm. 2021). Furthermore, we make use of a range of model organisms and purified systems, from bacteria and yeast to insects and human cells.
Through our research, we aim to gain new insights that not only deepen our understanding of RNA-based gene regulation but also pave the way for potential applications in medicine.
If that sounds interesting, please also visit our website to learn more about our other projects and our young and dynamic team.
Benefits:
- Be part of a high-impact research that will shape the future to create new RNA antiviral drugs and immunotherapies.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, for example: C-Trap.
- Competitive Salary. Remuneration group TV-L E13
- A full-time, fixed term or permanent position (depending on experience and funding).
- A highly collaborative, interdisciplinary and inclusive work environment.
- Many possibilities to develop independence and gain new skills.
- Support to apply for external third-party funding.
- Assistance with relocation and integration into Germany, if applicable.
- We offer 30 days of paid annual vacations.
- Opportunity to have long term employment and habilitation.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The promotion of diversity is an important goal for us, we promote equal opportunities.
Start date:
Start date is as soon as possible and the minimum duration of the employment is 2 years.
Application Deadline:
2025-06-30. Applications will be considered as they are received, until all positions are filled.
How to Apply:
If this vacancy sounds like a good fit for you, we’d love to hear from you!
Please send us your application a single PDF file including:
▪ Your CV
▪ A short cover letter telling us why you're interested in this role.
▪ Copies of your degrees or certificates.
▪ Reference letters or contact details of 2-3 referees.
▪ Any other documents that show your skills and experience.
Feel free to reach out to Prof. Caliskan ([email protected]) if you have any questions!
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Postdoctoral researcher in RNA gene evolution at University of Helsinki, Finland
Posted on April 18th, 2025
Project Summary
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the project "Mutation clusters and origin of regulatory RNA genes" funded by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation and led by Dr Heli Mönttinen at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Finland.
In this project we aim to identify recent and ancient mutation events in human regulatory RNA gene regions and study their impact on gene function and structure using a range of sequence analysis and comparative genomic methods. The projects will also involve programming for data collection and analysis. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will lead a subproject which involves screening mutation events from large genomic datasets and analysis the effects of the identified mutations using existing software as well as newly developed computational methods. You will report your results in a scientific publication as a first author with the support of other members of the group.
Skills, experience/qualifications
The successful candidate should have:
* Doctoral degree in a relevant field (e.g. bioinformatics, genetics, computer science or molecular biology)
* Proven programming skills (preferably Python, other languages also appreciated)
* Ability to handle large sequence datasets
* Experience of working in HPC environments
* Strong interest in molecular evolution
* Good written and oral communication skills in English
* Willingness to work both independently and as part of a team
We also appreciate:
* Good statistical skills
* Previous experience in RNA and comparative genomics
Position details
The successful candidate will be employed on a full-time, three-year fixed-term contract starting in September 2025 (or later by agreement). The position includes a six-month trial period.
Postdoc applicants must hold a doctoral degree by the start date of the appointment.
The salary is based on level 5 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research staff in the Finnish university salary system. In addition, the appointee will receive a salary component based on personal performance.
The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive benefits to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.
There is also an active postdoctoral community at the Institute of Biotechnology, which organises various networking and career development events for postdoctoral researchers (for further information, please see: https://blogs.helsinki.fi/viikki-postdoc/).
Application and selection procedure
To apply, please send the following documents in a single pdf file:
* A letter of motivation (max. 2 A4 pages), including:
i) Your motivation to apply
ii) Description of your skills and research experience
iii) How your experience supports the research position
* A curriculum vitae, structured according to the TENK guidelines (include only applicable sections, see https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae)
* A link to a coding sample in your Github profile (can be included to CV)
* Contact details of two referees (can be included to CV)
* Copy of Doctoral degree diploma.
Please submit your application using the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system:
https://jobs.helsinki.fi/job/Helsinki-Postdoctoral-researcher-in-RNA-gene-evolution%2C-M%C3%B6nttinen-group/818514702/
The deadline for applications is 16 May 2025.
The selection process will involve an initial shortlisting, followed by interviews with selected candidates. The interview may include a small bioinformatics task to be solved by the candidate during the interview. For more information about the position, please contact Heli Mönttinen (heli.monttinen(at)helsinki.fi).
Helsinki Institute of Life Science, HiLIFE, offers an international, inspiring, and supportive work environment. HiLIFE is a life science institute at the University of Helsinki established in 2017 supporting high quality research across campuses and life science faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths, new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for solving grand challenges in health, food, and environment. It coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences, provides research-based interdisciplinary training and supports researchers within its units and partner faculties. In 2019 HiLIFE has a staff of 600 and a budget of 59 M€.
For more information on the Institute, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-life-science
The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities. The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.
Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers
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Doctoral researcher in RNA gene evolution at University of Helsinki, Finland
Posted on April 18th, 2025
Project Summary
We are seeking a PhD student to join the project "Mutation clusters and origin of regulatory RNA genes" funded by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation and led by Dr Heli Mönttinen at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki.
In this project we aim to identify recent and ancient mutation events in human regulatory RNA gene regions and study their impact on gene function and structure using a range of sequence analysis and comparative genomic methods. The projects will also involve programming for data collection and analysis. As a PhD student, you will screen mutation events from large genomic datasets and analyse the effects of the identified mutations using existing software as well as well as newly developed computational methods. You are also be expected to report your results in a scientific publication as a first author with the help of other members of the group.
Skills, experience/qualifications
The successful candidate should have:
* Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g. bioinformatics, genetics, molecular biology)
* Proven programming skills (preferably Python, other languages also appreciated)
* A strong background in biology
* Strong interest in molecular evolution
* Good written and oral communication skills (in English)
* Willingness to work both independently and as part of a team
We also appreciate:
* Good statistical skills
* Ability to handle large datasets
* Experience of working in HPC environments
* Previous experience in RNA and comparative genomics
Position details
The successful candidate will be employed on a full-time, three-year fixed term contract starting in September 2025 (or later by agreement). The position includes a six-month trial period.
Applicants for the PhD researcher position have to apply the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the first six months of employment. The application periods for doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki are in February and September. For more information on the degree requirements and the application process, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-school.
The salary is based on level 2 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research staff in the Finnish university salary system. In addition, the appointee will receive a salary component based on personal performance. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive benefits to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. The doctoral researcher will also benefit from the courses, funding opportunities and training offered by the University of Helsinki Doctoral School.
Application and selection procedure
To apply, please send the following documents in a single pdf file:
* A letter of motivation (max. 2 A4 pages), including:
i) Your motivation to apply
ii) Description of your skills and research experience
iii) How your experience supports the research position
* A curriculum vitae, structured according to the TENK guidelines (include only applicable sections, see https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae)
*A link to a coding sample in your Github profile (included to CV)
* Contact details of two referees (can be included to CV)
* Copy of M.Sc. degree (or equivalent) diploma and a transcript of completed credits
Please submit your application using the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system: https://jobs.helsinki.fi/job/Helsinki-Doctoral-researcher-in-RNA-gene-evolution%2C-M%C3%B6nttinen-group/818511802/
The deadline for applications is 16 May 2025.
The selection process will involve an initial shortlisting, followed by interviews with selected candidates. The interview may include a small bioinformatics task to be solved by the candidate during the interview. For more information about the position, please contact Heli Mönttinen (heli.monttinen(at)helsinki.fi).
Helsinki Institute of Life Science, HiLIFE, offers an international, inspiring, and supportive work environment. HiLIFE is a life science institute at the University of Helsinki established in 2017 supporting high quality research across campuses and life science faculties. HiLIFE builds on existing strengths, new recruits and partnerships to create an attractive international environment for solving grand challenges in health, food, and environment. It coordinates research infrastructures in life sciences, provides research-based interdisciplinary training and supports researchers within its units and partner faculties. In 2019 HiLIFE has a staff of 600 and a budget of 59 M€.
For more information on the Institute, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-life-science
The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities. The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.
Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers
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Postdoc position in Computational biology/Bioinformatics focusing on eukaryotic RNA biology/RNA regulation/microRNAs at Uppsala University, Sweden.
Posted on April 16th, 2025
We are looking for a new member of the Söderbom research group to analyze gene regulation by non-coding RNAs and how this affects evolution of multicellularity. Specific focus is on microRNAs, both their role in the transition from uni- to multicellular life, but also how and when microRNA appeared during evolution. Apart from microRNAs, the lab is studying a new non-coding RNA that we have demonstrated to be important for early development in the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum. In the group, we combine experimental wet-lab approaches with computational analysis. We are now seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic postdoc to join the Söderbom research group in our research efforts.
For our studies we have mainly used social amoebae, which allow for both computational and experimental studies of how gene regulation contribute to multicellular development. We have recently extended our studies to other organisms to better understand the evolution of non-coding RNAs and their effect of organism complexity. More information about our research can be found at https://www.uu.se/en/department/cell-and-molecular-biology/research/microbiology-and-immunology/soderbom-lab
Recent publications describing our computational approaches:
Edelbroek et al. (2024). Evolution of microRNAs in Amoebozoa and implication for the origin of multicellularity. Nucleic Acids Research.
Edelbroek et al. (2024). Chromosome-level genome assembly and annotation of the social amoeba Dictyostelium firmibasis. Scientific Data.
Edelbroek et al. (2024). Multi-omics analysis of aggregative multicellularity (2024). iScience.
Kjellin et al. (2021). Abundantly expressed class of non-coding RNAs conserved through the multicellular evolution of dictyostelid social amoebas. Genome Research.
Qualifications: The successful candidate will have a strong interest in computational and RNA biology, with a PhD degree in bioinformatics, biology, molecular biology or equivalent. Very good knowledge and proven substantial experience in computational analyses of e.g. high-throughput sequencing data is a requirement. Programming skills, using for example R and Python, are also required. Important for the position is to be able to work independently but good skills in working in a team and collaborating with other researchers are also essential. Excellent communication skills (written and spoken English) are required. Assessment of personal suitability will be an important aspect in the selection. The applicant must have received his/her PhD degree within the last six years.
Additional qualification that is considered an asset: Experience in: analysis of small RNA-seq and mRNA-seq data; analysis of genome sequencing data and genome annotation; analysis of protein expression by mass-spec data; and multi-omics analysis.
Position: The project is funded by a tax-free 2-year scholarship (Carl Trygger’s Foundation) at the Program of Microbiology and Immunology at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University.
How to apply: Please send your application (in English) to [email protected] with the subject heading ‘Postdoc application’. The application must include the following documents combined into a single pdf file in the following order:
- CV (max 3 pages)
- Publication list
- A cover letter describing your interest and suitability for the position (max 1 page)
- Contact details of two to three references
Applications will be evaluated continuously until the position is filled.
Questions: For questions regarding this position, please e-mail me at [email protected]
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