Postdoctoral Research Fellow Position

Posted on August 22, 2026

About the role

The Garcia group is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate how toxic RNAs disrupt cellular energy metabolism and drive progressive dysfunction in neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders. The successful candidate will conduct original research using the model system Caenorhabditis elegans alongside mammalian cell systems to study how RNAs with expanded nucleotide repeats cause broad cellular energy metabolism disruptions. The project focuses on identifying early metabolomic disruptions, followed by genetic and biochemical dissection of the mechanisms underlying these alterations.

Repeat sequences are widespread in genomes and inherently unstable; expansions in nucleotide repeat length result in the production of toxic RNAs. These RNAs contribute to neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and myotonic dystrophy (DM). The project leverages recent transcriptomic and imaging data identifying progressive metabolic dysregulation linked to loss of organismal fitness.

The postdoctoral researcher will have opportunities to develop an independent research profile, collaborate with international partners, and contribute to high-impact publications.

Requirements

• PhD degree (obtained or expected) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, or related Life Sciences fields.
• Experience in RNA-based methodology such as RNA isolation, quality control, gene expression analysis, RNA sequencing, or related approaches.
• Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Qualifications (desirable)

• Experience with microscopy, transcriptomic analyses, or bioinformatics approaches.
• Experience working with C. elegans (a plus but not required).

Lab Methodology Expertise

The Garcia laboratory offers expertise in:

• Forward and reverse genetics
• High-throughput genetic and pharmacological screening
• Generation of C. elegans models of neurodegenerative disease
• Animal transgenesis and microinjection methods
• Transcriptomic and genomic analyses
• Advanced microscopy and image analysis
• Genetic analysis, complex strain construction through genetic crosses, and epigenetic approaches

Benefits

• Fully funded position for two years.
• Mentoring and support for applications to independent postdoctoral fellowships and career development opportunities.

Work Environment

The researcher will be based at the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki. The Institute provides state-of-the-art research infrastructures and a vibrant international scientific community. Located on the Viikki campus, the Institute is approximately 25 minutes from the center of Helsinki. The preferred starting date is the beginning of November 2026.

Relevant bibliography: Garcia et al 2014, Teixeira et al 2025, Teixeira et al 2026.