The University of Turku invites applications for postdoctoral and doctoral researcher positions in plant science and algae research, based in Turku, Finland. These roles are part of the AlgaCircle project, funded by Business Finland and several Finnish companies, and will be embedded within the Photosynthetic Microbes group led by Professor Yagut Allahverdiyeva-Rinne at the Faculty of Technology, Department of Life Technologies.
The Photosynthetic Microbes group is internationally recognized for its research on the regulation of photosynthesis and the development of sustainable biotechnologies. The group’s work spans elucidating photosynthetic electron transport pathways, engineering photosynthesis for enhanced bioproduction of solar chemicals, biophotovoltaic systems, and large-scale algal cultivation for phytoremediation and the production of green chemicals such as biostimulants and biopesticides. The group collaborates with leading international laboratories and industrial partners, participates in major conferences, and is involved in developing national research infrastructure and science policy initiatives.
The AlgaCircle project focuses on utilizing industrial effluents from Finnish industries to cultivate microalgae and upgrade the resulting biomass through a multiproduct biorefinery approach. Two main research positions are available: one will test different algal formulations on crops in collaboration with photobioreactor researchers and the NAPPI plant phenotyping platform; the other will optimize phytoremediation of industrial effluents using photobioreactor parameter adjustments and genetic engineering/synthetic biology approaches.
Applicants for the postdoctoral researcher position must hold a doctoral degree and demonstrate a strong academic background, including first-author publications in plant science, photosynthesis, agriculture, or biotechnology. Doctoral researcher/project researcher applicants must hold a Master’s degree (MSc) in biotechnology, plant science, molecular biology, biophysics, or a related field, with good academic performance considered an asset. Students who have not yet completed their degree may apply as research assistants. All applicants must have fluent written and spoken English skills. Eligibility requirements are defined by University of Turku regulations and the UTUGS doctoral programme criteria.
Successful candidates will join a vibrant, multicultural research community with access to state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies. The university offers flexible working hours, well-being services, and strong support for international hires. The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the HR Excellence in Research quality label, reflecting its commitment to high standards in researcher working conditions.
Funding is provided by Business Finland and Finnish companies. The postdoctoral researcher salary is approximately 3600-3800 €/month, doctoral researcher salary is approximately 2500-2600 €/month, and research assistant salary is 2280 €/month. The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of extension; doctoral researchers are employed for at least three years after UTUGS enrollment. The position includes a six-month trial period.
To apply, submit your application online via the provided link. Required documents include a motivation letter (max 1 page), CV (max 2 pages), list of publications, and degree certificates in English or Finnish. For position details, contact Professor Yagut Allahverdiyeva (allahve@utu.fi); for application process questions, contact HR Specialist Paula Luoma (paula.luoma@utu.fi). Applications can be edited until the deadline of November 27, 2025.
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in plant science, algae biotechnology, and environmental sustainability at one of Finland’s leading universities.
