Senior Researcher (Spatial Omics)

Senior Researcher (Spatial Omics)

University of Turku

Turku, Finland

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Researcher to join our team and lead the development and application of cutting-edge spatial omics technologies, integrating expertise from our different core facilities. This role will be central to building and integrating our core facility expertise in spatial technologies to generate combined spatial omic methodologies. These include transcriptomics, proteomics, multiplex immunohistochemistry, metabolomics, and related methods. 

The Senior Researcher will play both a scientific and strategic role, ensuring our unit remains at the forefront of rapidly evolving technologies. The person will be responsible for developing workflows that work across core facilities, consulting with researchers, and actively contributing to collaborative projects.

The Senior Researcher possesses a strong understanding of the use of omics in biological research and an interest towards rapidly evolving techniques, especially in spatial omics. They independently and proactively follow publications, conferences, and technological breakthroughs in the field and, can assess which methods are relevant to the unit’s needs and are excited about an opportunity to create core services and workflows supporting scientists working with different biological disciplines. Insights in immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and/or drug discovery are considered beneficial.

Who we are looking for

• PhD in biosciences or a related field, with postdoctoral experience;
• Proven track record and hands-on expertise with omics technologies and sample processing;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English;
• A team player who enjoys working in an international and multidisciplinary environment;
• Strong project management skills and a detail-oriented, systematic approach to work.

This is a new, permanent role within our organization. We’re excited to welcome someone who is eager to make a lasting impact. While we are looking for candidates with prior experience in at least one of the omics technologies, we’re open to shaping the role to match the right person’s skills and strengths. Most importantly, we value a positive, enthusiastic attitude and a genuine commitment to growing with us.

Your Tasks

Expertise and Methodological Development

• Establish, optimize, and expand workflows for spatial omics technologies, from sample preparation through analysis to data generation and interpretation;
• Integrate spatial methods with other modalities, such as transcriptomics or proteomics, to provide holistic biological insights;
• Stay current with scientific and technological developments through literature, conferences, and professional networks, and assess their relevance to our research goals.

Strategic Contribution

• Contribute actively to the unit’s strategic planning by identifying emerging technologies and research needs;
• Translate innovations into robust, practical applications that enhance the quality and impact of our services;
• Balance scientific ambition with resource management, scheduling, and financial considerations.

Collaboration and Consultation with Researchers

• Act as an advisor to researchers, guiding them in selecting the most appropriate methods for their scientific questions;
• Provide cost-effective, fit-for-purpose solutions tailored to diverse research needs;
• Promote collaboration between different core facilities and research groups;
• Contribute to and co-author publications.

Project Management and Prioritisation

• Engage directly in research projects, contributing to study design, sample processing, data analysis, and interpretation;
• Prioritize and manage multiple projects effectively, ensuring timelines and goals are met;
• Manage a dynamic, constantly evolving environment where different disciplines, technologies, and core facilities intersect.