Postdoctoral Researcher in cell and developmental biology, group Mikkola

Marja Mikkola’s research group at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki invites applications for the position of a

 

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER

 

to work in the Epithelial Morphogenesis group, starting as soon as possible. The employment is fixed term of 2 years with a possible extension. 

 
The position 

 
A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in the Epithelial Morphogenesis group led by Dr. Marja Mikkola at the Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/epithelial-morphogenesis). We are seeking a highly motivated researcher to join our team. We use a wide range of molecular, cellular, transcriptomic, and advanced imaging techniques, in combination with ex vivo and in vivo manipulation of developing mouse organs.

 

The project will focus on how signaling pathways operate at the intersection of growth control and branching morphogenesis in the developing mammary gland and can be tuned according to the interests and skills of the applicant. The project will use mouse mutants and may use techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and live confocal whole-mount imaging. The position is also suitable for an applicant who wishes to build their independent career after the post-doc period. We offer an international, inspiring, and supportive research environment and excellent research facilities with access to the state-of-the art technologies. 

 
Qualifications  

 

We invite applications from candidates with a solid theoretical and wet-lab background and a PhD degree in cell/molecular biology, developmental biology, genetics, biomedicine, or another appropriate field. Previous experience in confocal imaging and image analysis, scRNA-seq data analysis, or genetically engineered mouse models is considered advantageous. A problem-solving mindset, excellent written and oral skills in English, and the ability to work productively both independently and as part of a team are a necessity. A willingness to supervise students and staff is expected. The position may include one to two short (2-4 weeks) visits to a collaborator’s lab in Europe. 
 

The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki. 

What we offer

 

The position is for a fixed term of 2 years, available as soon as possible, with the possibility of extension until August 31, 2029.  A six-month trial period will be applied. 

 
The salary will be based on level 5 of the University salary system for teaching and research personnel and includes a component based on personal performance. Standard Finnish pension benefits, occupational health care, and opportunities for professional development are provided for university employees: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers. 
 

The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, insurance for work-related travel and occupational accidents, sports services at a reduced price, and opportunities for professional development.

 

The International Staff Services office assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland. 

Please read more why you should choose the University of Helsinki as your next place to work: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki 

 

How to apply  

 

Applications are to be sent by  June 7, 2026, using the University’s recruitment system via the button “Apply now”. Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications by using the Employee Login button.

 

Please submit your application, which includes the following documents in English:

 

•    Cover letter (max 1 page) describing your scientific background and expertise, motivation for the position.
•    CV (max 3 pages) including a list of publications, and the names and contact information (e-mail, telephone number, relation to the applicant) of at least two references who have agreed to provide a written statement on behalf of the applicant.  
•    Copy of your Doctoral diploma.

 
Note that applications will be reviewed already during the application period, and the position may be filled before the application deadline if a suitable candidate is identified. 

 

Contact details

 

For further inquiries regarding the project and the position, please contact Marja Mikkola, Research director: marja.mikkola@helsinki.fi.

 

Technical support for using the recruitment system: rekrytointi@helsinki.fi

 
Selected publications 
 

Lan Q, Trela E, Lindström R, Satta JP, Kaczyńska B, Christensen MM, Holzenberger M, Jernvall J, Mikkola ML. Mesenchyme instructs growth while epithelium directs branching in the mouse mammary gland. Elife 13:e93326, 2024. 
 
Satta JP, Lindström R, Myllymäki SM, Lan Q, Trela E, Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen R, Kaczyńska B, Voutilainen M, Kuure S, Vainio SJ, Mikkola ML. Exploring the principles of embryonic mammary gland branching morphogenesis. Development 151:dev202179, 2024.
 
Myllymäki SM, Kaczyńska B, Lan Q, Mikkola ML. Spatially coordinated cell cycle activity and motility govern bifurcation of mammary branches. J Cell Biol 222:e202209005, 2023. 
 
Sulic AM, Das Roy R, Papagno V, Lan Q, Saikkonen R, Jernvall J, Thesleff I, Mikkola ML. Transcriptomic landscape of early hair follicle and epidermal development. Cell Rep 42:112643, 2023. 

 

Diversity clause

 

A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.

 

Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.

 

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About us

 

University of Helsinki is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE is an independent research institute that supports high-quality life science research across university campuses and faculties. The Institute of Biotechnology (BI), a part of HiLIFE, is an internationally renowned research institute with an inclusive and curiosity-driven working culture. The research activities are carried out in research groups joined into three multidisciplinary research programs. The Institute hosts several shared research infrastructures, including cutting-edge facilities for light microscopy, sequencing, and proteomics. For more information, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/hilife/bi.