POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW, 2 POSITIONS, (CELLULAR BIOPHYSICS) / TUTKIJATOHTORI, 2 TEHTÄVÄÄ, (SOLUTASON BIOFYSIIKKA)

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We are looking for two highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellows in the field of biophysics to join our research groups “Biophysics of the eye” and “Cellular biophysics” at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology. The positions are full-time and will be filled for a fixed-term period of three years.
The Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology (MET) is dedicated to pursuing world-class research and delivering high-quality education in the fields of biomedical engineering, biotechnology, medicine and health technology. We conduct internationally acclaimed basic and applied research.
The research groups ”Biophysics of the eye” and “Cellular biophysics” are looking for two postdoctoral researchers in the field of biophysics, focusing on cellular electrophysiology, cell biology and imaging based approaches.
“Biophysics of the eye” research group investigates the concerted functioning of the retina and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in the eye with focus on ion channel physiology. The group has studied different voltage-gated ion channels and gap junctions in the RPE and evaluated the authenticity of stem cell-derived RPE regarding these characteristics. Utilizing techniques including patch clamp electrophysiology, high resolution live cell imaging and molecular biosensor approaches the group aims to resolve how the electrical properties of the RPE influence its biological processes.
“Cellular biophysics” group is interested in mechanobiology. Recently the group has studied e.g., force transmission in epithelial monolayers, and mechanosensing of the cells, with a particular focus on mechanosensitive ion channels. The group uses a variety of techniques (hydrogels, gene editing, live cell microscopy, biosensors) to decipher how mechanical forces and physical cues regulate cellular physiology.

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are seeking two talented, creative, independent and motivated postdoctoral researchers. Please indicate on your application to which of the positions (or both) you are applying for.

• Postdoctoral Research Fellow #1 will study the electrical signaling of the RPE and its communication with the neural retina. Methodological approaches include electrophysiology (primarily patch clamp), confocal microscopy related techniques, and live cell imaging combined with different biosensors and indicators (calcium indicators, voltage indicators, etc.). The employed experimental models are stem cell derived RPE, zebrafish, and mouse tissues.
• Postdoctoral Research Fellow #2 will study the mechanosensing and mechanotransduction in epithelial and induced pluripotent stem cells. The main focus will be in cellular sensing of mechanical stimulus and topographical cues. The studies require expertise in cell culturing, confocal microscopy, live cell imaging, hydrogel construction, usage of different biosensors (Ca2+ indicators, force sensors), and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing.

Both positions include collaboration with research colleagues and support staff, both internally and within external networks. The postdoctoral researchers will provide guidance and support to students, contribute to relevant teaching activities, and participate in scientific meetings. In addition, data analysis, writing publications and research reports as well as funding applications and disseminations to the wider community will be needed.

REQUIREMENTS

We are looking for versatile and independent researchers with an applicable doctoral degree (e.g. in the field of cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, engineering, biosensor technology, or neuroscience) and a solid background in cellular electrophysiology (including patch clamp), cell biology, or generally in cellular biophysics. Candidates with additional experience in different imaging techniques will be highly valued. We also appreciate experience and contacts with the international research community. Candidates with proven ability to supervise M.Sc. and Ph.D. students will be considered an advantage. The positions may also involve some teaching duties in the future. Furthermore, the positions require that the candidate is able to meet the responsibilities identified in laboratories and to follow ethical guidelines. Finally, good communication skills and fluency in English (both written and oral) will be considered important for the positions. Please describe your relevant experience and skills in detail in the cover letter, and please be prepared to provide proof of your merits when requested.
Tampere University is a unique, multidisciplinary, and boldly forward-looking community. Our values are openness, diversity, responsibility, courage, critical thinking, and learner-centredness. We hope that you can embrace these values and promote them in your work.

Please refer the Job description for details