Postdoctoral Researcher in Neuroscience, group Lauri

The Sari Lauri Research Group is looking for highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher. The start date of the employment is 1st of March 2026 or upon agreement. Employment is two years long with possible continuation. The salary is approximately 3 500 € / month.

About Sari Lauri Research Group

The Research Laboratory in Synaptic Plasticity and Development, led by Sari Lauri, is affiliated in the Neuroscience Center in the University of Helsinki (see: https://www2.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/synaptic-plasticity-and-development).The research interests are focused on functional maturation of neuronal circuitries in healthy and diseased brain. The topic is investigated at different levels, from molecular mechanisms to behaviour, using animal models and various electrophysiological techniques in combination with optogenetic and chemogenetic tools, local genetic manipulation, histological analysis and behavioural tests. We provide an international, inspiring and supportive research environment with excellent research facilities.

The position

The Postdoctoral Researcher will work on a project characterizing the effects of kainate-receptors on functional maturation of GABAergic interneurons, focusing on PV and SOM subtypes in the limbic microcircuitries. The physiological significance of the findings will be investigated in the context of early life stress and neurodevelopmental disorders, involving aberrant amygdala dependent behaviors. The selected candidate will perform in vitro (patch clamp) and in vivo electrophysiological recordings, AAV viral infections and advanced data analysis. He/she is also expected to supervise research trainees in the group.

About you

Applicant is expected to be early career researcher (Ph.D. degree), with background in neuroscience or physiology. Previous experience in in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological techniques (field recordings and whole-cell patch-clamp in vitro; multi-unit activity in vivo), immunocytochemistry, small animal surgery (brain microinjections), behavioural tests and work with transgenic mouse lines will be an asset. Applicant is collaborative, communicative, and comfortable working in an international and multidisciplinary environment.

What we offer

Position is initially available for two years with possible continuation. The salary will be based on the Finnish university salary system (YPJ), approximately 3 500 € / month, depending on qualifications and performance levels. A six-month trial period will be applied.

Please read more why you should choose the University of Helsinki as your next place to work:https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via the University of Helsinki recruitment system using the Apply Now link. Please attach the following documents to your application:

– cover letter, describing the previous research experience and expectations from the future work.
– CV (including ORCID iD and publication list).
– PhD diploma.
– contact details of at least two references.

Application deadline is 30th of January 2026, and position is available from 1st of March 2026 or upon agreement. Applications will be processed on a rolling basis and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

For further information regarding the positions, please contact Sari Lauri sari.lauri(at)helsinki.fi

Diversity clause

A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our university.

Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.

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About the Neuroscience Center

Neuroscience Center (NC) fosters a vibrant intellectual environment that brings together a multidisciplinary group of neuroscientists. The mission of the Neuroscience Center is to advance fundamental discoveries in neurosciences to understand how the brain gives rise to complex dynamics and behaviors in health and disease. The research in NC spans across several scales from stem cell research to neurobiology, to circuit- and systems neuroscience. Our research applies various cutting-edge neurotechnology platforms, neuroimaging tools and sophisticated analysis techniques that helps us unravel neuronal processing at multiple levels. Our goal is to pursue fundamental discoveries about brain functions and to promote health and wellbeing by translating research findings into improvements in the treatments, preventions and diagnostics of psychiatric and neurological disorders. Our community is international and we are committed to inclusive, safe, comfortable culture for promoting diverse talents. Please read more from: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/hilife-helsinki-institute-life-science/units/neuroscience-center

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