A PhD student position is available in the research group of Dr. Jeroen Pouwels in the Centre for Biotechnology of the University of Turku. The research group (see http://www.btk.fi/research/research-groups/pouwels/) aims to characterize Sharpin, both at the molecular level and how Sharpin could play a role in human diseases (Rantala, Pouwels et al., Nature Cell Biology, 2011, Pouwels et al., Cell Reports, 2013 and Bouvard, Pouwels et al., Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology 2013). The candidate will join our efforts to characterize the unpublished role of Sharpin in actin dynamics. In addition, he or she will focus on post-translational modifications of Sharpin and how they affect Sharpin function.

Ideally, the candidate is familiar with eukaryotic cell culture, cell imaging and basic cell and molecular biology techniques. Furthermore, the candidate is expected to be an excellent team player, be highly motivated and have a good grasp of the English language.

The salary is in accordance with the University salary system (for teaching and research personnel) level 1 - 2, where the work specific salary component is between 1787,97 ‐ 1964,69 €/month. In addition, there is a share increase based on the personal performance, which is, at most, 46,3% of the base salary. The initial contract will be for one year (with a 4 months trial period) starting the first of February 2015, though a later starting date is possible.

Applications (including a cover letter, CV and references) must be done before 07 January 2015 using the University of Turku online application system. A link to the position and to the electronic system can be found at www.utu.fi/careershttp://www.utu.fi/careers. For further inquiries regarding the position please contact Dr. Pouwels (jpouwels (at) btk (dot) fi), and for further inquiries regarding the application procedure, please contact coordinator Ulla Karhunen (ulla.karhunen (at) btk (dot) fi), +358 2 333 8042.