Job Description

The McWilliams Lab investigates physiological autophagy, a membrane-driven lysosomal degradation pathway essential for cell, circuit and tissue homeostasis. Impairments in autophagy and lysosomal function are causally linked to neurodegeneration and age-related pathology. We use integrative multiscale approaches to define the mechanistic interplay between autophagy and metabolism and determine how this relationship impacts neural integrity in health and disease. Our ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.

About Us

We work at the interface of discovery and translation within a well-resourced and internationally connected research environment. The PI is a Scholar of the FENS-Kavli Network of Excellence, and the lab is embedded in the Novo Nordisk Foundation EnergAge Consortium for Metabolic Aging and SWAN-Helsinki, with access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and core facilities. We value scientific rigor and a collaborative working culture.

The opportunity

We are recruiting two Postdoctoral Researchers to advance ambitious projects that dissect the molecular logic of circuit and tissue integrity. The projects build on our recent advances in brain aging (Rappe et al., The EMBO Journal, 2024), metabolic regulation (Long et al., The EMBO Journal, 2022), and human neurological disease (Collier et al., The New England Journal of Medicine, 2021). You will work with the PI and lab members to apply newly developed tools and leverage unpublished datasets to design and execute rigorous functional studies in vitro and in vivo. In addition to developing yourself scientifically within an internationally competitive environment, you will receive regular feedback and strategic mentoring to support research excellence, professional development, and preparation for your next career stage.

Your profile

• Recent PhD in Cell Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
• A strong academic track record, and at least one recent first-author publication (accepted or in press) in an internationally recognised peer-reviewed journal.
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise in working with one of the following:
  • Mammalian cell culture systems and discovery biology (cell biology is advantageous)
  • Mouse models and functional in vivo profiling approaches (neurobiology is advantageous; however, training can be provided if necessary)
• A genuine team player who values collective success and contributes positively to the lab culture.
• Highly organised, methodical, and self-directed, with the capacity to advance complex projects with clarity and momentum.
• An open and collaborative approach to trainee development and mentorship within the team.
• Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments to a high technical standard, with strong data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Excellent communication skills and a strong command of written and spoken English.
• A clear intellectual interest in organelle biology and its relevance to neuroscience and biomedicine.

Preferred qualifications

• Demonstrated competence with core molecular biology techniques (including vector design, genome-targeting strategies, and PCR-based workflows).
• Experience with viral delivery, transduction, functional perturbations, and rescue experiments.
• Experience in biochemical and/or histological profiling of cell- and tissue-specific phenotypes.
• Confocal microscopy and quantitative image analysis expertise.
• Evidence of sustained productivity with technically demanding research projects.
• Prior experience in either modern neurobiology or organelle biochemistry would be highly desirable.

What we offer

The position is initially available for 18 months (with the possibility of extension), and a trial period of six months will be applied. The monthly gross starting salary will be approximately 3,700–4,000 EUR per month depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience. The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.

In addition, the University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and opportunities for professional development. Please read more at https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the "Apply now" button.

Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications by using the Employee Login button.

Please send your application with following enclosures:

1. A complete CV, including education, previous and current professional positions, publications with PMID specifiers and contact details for three referees.
2. A motivation letter (max 1 page) demonstrating engagement with our work, and how this position aligns with your career goals.

The closing date for applications is 17th of March 2026 at 23:59 EEST The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

For further information on the position, please contact Associate Professor Thomas McWilliams (thomas.mcwilliams-at-helsinki.fi). Lab website: www.mcwilliamslab.eu