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Open Positions
The Department of Psychology at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position within the KG Jebsen Center for Obesity Research. We are seeking a candidate interested in integrating cognitive neuroscience, computational modelling, endocrinology, and data-driven phenotyping.
Location
Helsinki-based | Collaboration with Oslo & Leipzig
Start
August 2026 (or as agreed)
About the Project
The project investigates why individuals differ in their ability to maintain weight loss by combining:
- • Neurocognitive profiling
- • Endocrine markers from longitudinal cohorts
- • Brain imaging data (structural and functional MRI)
The aim is to identify cognitive-endocrine phenotypes linked to weight trajectories and treatment response, and to improve the prediction of individual outcomes.
Role
The postdoctoral researcher will:
- • Implement a standardised neurocognitive assessment battery across cohorts
- • Analyse multivariate cognitive profiles in relation to endocrine and longitudinal outcome data
- • Examine brain correlates using existing MRI datasets
- • Contribute to the development of predictive models of weight-regain risk and treatment response
Profile
We are looking for a candidate who:
- • Holds a PhD in cognitive neuroscience, psychology, data science, engineering, or a related field
- • Has experience with multivariate/statistical modelling
- • Has experience working with (f)MRI data (resting-state and/or task-based)
- • Has worked with behavioural and/or psychometric data
- • Works independently and collaboratively, and is open to feedback
- • Has a strong interest in individual differences in cognition, emotion, and eating behaviour
Environment
- • Based at the Department of Psychology, University of Helsinki
- • Embedded in an international collaboration (Helsinki, Oslo, Leipzig)
- • Collaborative, inclusive, and supportive team, with strong emphasis on mutual support, open exchange, and continuous learning
- • Access to large-scale longitudinal and neuroimaging datasets
- • Contribute to mechanistically informed, precision approaches in obesity research
Employment Details
- Type: Initially fixed-term for 2 years, with planned extension of up to 2.5 additional years
- Start date: From August 2026, or as agreed
- Location: Helsinki, with some mobility between partner sites (Oslo, Leipzig)
- Salary: Based on the University salary system for teaching and research staff, depending on qualifications and experience
Language Requirements
- • Excellent English skills are required
- • Knowledge of German, Swedish, and/or Finnish is considered an advantage
- • Finnish is not required
Application Process
Preferred application deadline:
15 June 2026 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled)
Application submission:
Applications should be submitted via the online application form
Timeline:
The position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified
Application Deadline
Preferred: June 15, 2026 (rolling basis)
Open Call for PhD Candidates
While we do not currently have predefined PhD projects available, we are always eager to connect with highly motivated and talented individuals. If you are interested in exploring potential doctoral research opportunities within our lab, we encourage you to submit a speculative application.
What to prepare
Please familiarize yourself with our requirements and guidelines of application documents here and explore our current projects.
Master's Thesis Opportunities
We welcome motivated Master's students who are interested in conducting their thesis research in our lab. If you are eager to contribute to our ongoing research and develop your skills in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply.
Before you apply
Please familiarize yourself with our requirements and guidelines of application documents here and explore our current projects.
Internship Opportunities
We are always looking for enthusiastic interns to join our team. Whether you are seeking hands-on lab experience, want to learn new analytical skills, or wish to support our ongoing studies, an internship in our lab provides a vibrant and collaborative environment for early-career growth.
Before you apply
Please familiarize yourself with our requirements and guidelines of application documents here and explore our current projects.
Apply Now
Use forms above to submit your application. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email!
Deadline Notice
Summer internships: Apply before March 31st
Notice
Please refrain from including a photo of yourself or mentions of your age, nationality, or marital status in your application!
Speculative Applications
Your speculative applications are always welcome! We're constantly looking for talented and motivated researchers to join our team.
Application Documents
Cover Letter Required
Explain your research interests and motivation.
CV / Resume Required
Detailed curriculum vitae with your experience
Research proposal Optional
A short description of your proposed research project, or interests
References Optional
Contact information for references
Why Join Our Lab?
Cutting-Edge Research
Work on innovative projects in neuroscience and obesity research
Collaborative Environment
Join a diverse, international team of researchers
International Network
Collaborate with international institutions across the globe