SciLifeLab’s first PULSE postdoc cohort – research in action

The SciLifeLab PULSE program has welcomed its first cohort of postdoctoral researchers. As a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Cofund initiative, PULSE will train 48 future leaders in life sciences for careers in academia or industry.

The program’s first phase was launched earlier this year, with postdocs recruited across in both academic and industrial tracks, with the next recruitment round opening on December 15 this year. 

We spoke with two PULSE principal investigators (PIs) about why the program stands out, their advice for postdocs applying with a project, and their tips for future PIs.

Ulrika Yngve, is one of the PI hosts in the entrepreneurial track. As head of unit at SciLifeLab Medicinal Chemistry Lead Identification, she works with the exploration and optimization of molecules in early drug discovery projects.

“In the first round of advertising, I was contacted by a candidate with an interesting CV. Since we are in the entrepreneurial track, the candidate’s idea must both add something new to our platform and form the basis of a potential business concept, which is a really challenging task. By the end of the project, we expect to have access to a new technique for our users, and to learn a lot together along the way. We are both excited to start working together, and for me this is also a chance to become more engaged in research and publishing results”, says Ulrika Yngve.

The PULSE program emphasizes innovative, fundamental, and translational research, but also has a strong component of training skills such as scientific communication and sustainable leadership. The program is designed to equip postdocs with the skills and experience needed for long-term career sustainability, whether in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship. 

Tuulia Hyötyläinen, Professor at Örebro University, whose research focuses on the impact of the exposome on human health is also a PI in the program. Her team studies environmental exposures and their biomolecular effects, with special interest in the metabolic level.

“I’m very happy to welcome a new postdoc to my team through the SciLifeLab PULSE program! This MSCA Cofund initiative offers a unique chance to attract and support talented young researchers while also providing training in research, communication, and sustainable career development. The recruitment process was smooth, transparent, and efficient.For future applicants: the program is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for the next step in your career. For fellow PIs: PULSE is an excellent way to connect with highly promising researchers from around the world and to be part of a supportive, interdisciplinary community”, says Tuulia Hyötyläinen.

PULSE continues to grow as a platform that bridges disciplines and sectors – offering postdoctoral researchers the chance to develop cutting-edge science while strengthening their career paths.

The next application round opens December 15, 2025. More information about SciLifeLab PULSE Program for Future Leaders in Life Science is found here >>