Open PhD student position at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Ouluhttps://www.oulu.fi/english/ Description Applications are invited for a full-time Doctoral student (max. 4 years) position, starting at the earliest on 1.10.2021 in a research projecthttps://www.oulu.fi/university/researcher/taina-pihlajaniemi headed by Professor Taina Pihlajaniemi in the Extracellular matrix & Hypoxia Research Unit, operating at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicinehttps://www.oulu.fi/en/university/faculties-and-units/faculty-biochemistry-and-molecular-medicine. Molecular and environmental basis for lifelong health is one of the strategic focus areas of the University. The doctoral student is enrolled in the Health and Bioscience Doctoral Programme of the University of Oulu Graduate schoolhttps://www.oulu.fi/uniogs/dp/hbsdp, which provides support in theoretical and practical training. We are now looking for a motivated Doctoral student in a project addressing the roles and molecular interactions of collagen XIII (ColXIII) in the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Using murine models we have shown that ColXIII is an essential NMJ component and others have recently shown that mutations in the human gene cause congenital myasthenic syndrome type 19 (CMS19). Using mouse and cell culture models we will identify the network of molecules and the events whereby ColXIII operates in the normal NMJ and the developmental events that lead to CMS19. We will also determine the occurrence of anti-ColXIII autoimmune antibodies in patients with acquired generalized and ocular myasthenia gravis and assess their effects on the NMJ. The studies provide unique opportunities to enhance the understanding of critical motor synapse molecules and facilitate personalized therapies in genetic and acquired myasthenia. The position is fixed-term for 4 years in an Academy of Finland-funded project and it targets to completion of a Doctoral thesis and multiple publications in high-ranked international journals. Besides research, the position includes some teaching duties in an international Master's Programmehttps://www.oulu.fi/university/masters/biochemistry in Biochemistry. Qualification requirements The successful candidate for the Doctoral student position must possess a M.Sc. degree in the field of biochemistry, molecular or cell biology, medical science or related fields. We also invite applications from pre-graduate students from these fields of university studies. In this case, to be eligible for application, the candidate must demonstrate that he/she will graduate at home University not later than 31.12.2021 and also provide 1) an official statement from the home University attesting that all the courses, exams and other qualifications needed for graduation have already been obtained, 2) an official statement from the home University attesting that thesis has been submitted for evaluation and, 3) a letter of support from the candidate's Supervisor (the minimum acceptable level for supervision is docent / assistant professor). Prior experience in molecular biology and cell culture-based experiments is required, and proficiency in microscopy is expected. Prior experience in generating or working with experimental mouse models, and knowledge of the research field in question is considered an advantage. Good communication and teamwork skills are appreciated. Fluency in both written and spoken English is required. Most importantly, we expect the candidate to have a high motivation to conduct high-level biomedical research. What we offer We offer a research environment with excellent technological facilities and a motivating and supporting international community at the Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu. We can also offer access to state-of-the-art facilities and special expertise through visits to collaborative laboratories outside Oulu when needed. You will have a place in a highly talented research group, working to solve globally significant research problems. University´s wide variety of support services are at disposal, allowing to focus on studies and research work. The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 1.10.2021 or as soon as possible thereafter. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

Link for full recruitment call text and the electronic application form

https://rekry.saima.fi/certiahome/open_job_view.html?did=5600&lang=fi&am...

Further information For further information, please contact Prof. Taina Pihlajaniemi, e-mail: taina.pihlajaniemi (at) oulu.fi or Dr. Anne Heikkinen; e-mail: anne.heikkinen (at) oulu.fi