Tampere University invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in the field of stimuli-responsive liquid crystal elastomers, as part of the ERC Consolidator Grant project 'Multimodal Sensory-Motorized Material Systems (MULTIMODAL)'. The successful candidate will join the Smart Photonic Materials (SPM) research group, which is internationally recognized for its work on functional and responsive soft materials with applications in photonics, biosciences, and soft robotics. The SPM group is embedded within the Chemistry & Advanced Materials (CAM) research cluster, the PREIN Flagship on Photonics Research and Innovation, and the LIBER Centre of Excellence, providing a vibrant, multidisciplinary, and international research environment. The doctoral project focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of supramolecular, halogen-bonded liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs). The research aims to develop adaptive material systems that integrate multiple sensory inputs with controlled motor responses, inspired by biological sensory–motor integration. Key objectives include tailoring the molecular architecture and dynamic bonding motifs of LCEs to achieve advanced functionalities such as actuation, reprogrammability, self-repair, and mechanical adaptability. The project is highly interdisciplinary, positioned at the interface of chemistry, materials science, and soft robotics, and offers opportunities for international research mobility with collaboration partners. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field by the start of employment. Prior experience with soft responsive matter, supramolecular chemistry, polymer synthesis, or characterization, as well as familiarity with liquid crystals, soft actuators, or dynamic supramolecular systems, is considered advantageous. Good proficiency in written and spoken English is required, while knowledge of Finnish is not necessary. The ideal candidate will be motivated, proactive, and able to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary, international team. The selected candidate must apply for a study right within the doctoral program at Tampere University unless already enrolled. The position is offered for a fixed-term period of four (2+2) years, with a typical starting salary of approximately 2700 EUR/month, increasing with experience and progress in doctoral studies. Additional benefits include occupational health care, flexible work schedules, access to modern research infrastructure, and a personal fund for sports and cultural activities. The planned starting date is March 2026 or as mutually agreed. Tampere University is committed to values of openness, critical thinking, diversity, and learner-centeredness, and offers a dynamic academic and living environment in one of Finland’s major urban hubs. To apply, submit your application through the online recruitment system by 16 February 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, degree certificates, transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and any other supporting materials, all combined into a single PDF file in English. For further information, contact Professor Arri Priimägi ([email protected]) or visit the Smart Photonic Materials group website.

The Smart Photonic Materials research group at Tampere University, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, is seeking a highly motivated doctoral researcher for a PhD position in the field of stimuli-responsive liquid crystal elastomers. This opportunity is part of the ERC Consolidator Grant project 'Multimodal Sensory-Motorized Material Systems (MULTIMODAL)', which aims to develop life-inspired, adaptive material systems that integrate multiple sensory inputs with controlled motor responses, drawing inspiration from biological sensory–motor integration. The research will focus on the design and development of functional and responsive soft materials, particularly liquid crystal elastomers, with applications in photonics, biosciences, and soft robotics. The project is highly interdisciplinary, positioned at the interface of chemistry, materials science, and robotics, and involves collaboration within the Chemistry and Advanced Materials (CAM) research cluster, the PREIN Photonics Research and Innovation Flagship, and the LIBER Centre of Excellence. The SPM group offers a vibrant and international research environment. The doctoral researcher will be co-supervised by Professor Arri Priimägi and Dr. Hongshuang Guo. The research will explore supramolecular liquid crystal elastomers, including the use of halogen bonding to enhance multi-responsive behavior, and will contribute to the development of materials capable of multimodal sensing, actuation, adaptation, and self-repair. The project addresses grand challenges in soft robotics and advanced functional materials, with potential applications in 4D printing, drug delivery, and autonomous soft robotic devices. Applicants should have a strong background in chemistry, materials science, physics, or a related field, and demonstrate motivation for interdisciplinary research. The position is fully funded by the ERC, with salary and research costs covered according to Tampere University regulations. The application deadline is February 16, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the official position page or contact Prof. Arri Priimägi at [email protected].

Tampere University’s Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (ENS) invites applications for the EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowship program. This prestigious opportunity is designed for researchers who have completed their PhD and are seeking to advance their careers in an international and interdisciplinary environment. The ENS faculty is renowned for its research excellence in natural sciences and engineering, offering a vibrant academic setting with world-class infrastructure and strong industry connections. The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship at Tampere University covers a wide range of research areas, including but not limited to automation technology, mechanical engineering, robotics, materials science, environmental engineering, chemistry, and physics. Research groups within ENS focus on topics such as autonomous mobile machines, mechatronics, digital design and manufacturing, tribology, circular economy innovation, energy and biorefining, synthetic biology, photonics, computational physics, and advanced materials. The faculty’s interdisciplinary approach encourages collaboration across engineering and natural sciences, providing fellows with opportunities to engage in both fundamental and applied research. Applicants must have defended their PhD by the application deadline (September 9, 2026), have no more than 8 years of research experience post-PhD, and must not have resided or worked in Finland for more than 12 months in the 36 months preceding the deadline. A confirmed supervisor at Tampere University is required, and candidates are encouraged to review the list of potential supervisors and research groups to identify a suitable match for their research interests. The MSCA fellowship provides comprehensive funding, including 1-2 years’ salary, mobility and family allowances, research costs, and institutional overheads. The university supports applicants through a dedicated Masterclass, which assists in preparing competitive proposals. The application process involves contacting a potential supervisor with a letter of intent (including a project idea, CV, and eligibility confirmation), joining the Masterclass if matched, and submitting a final proposal in collaboration with the supervisor. For more information, applicants should consult the official Tampere University MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships page and review the detailed guidelines and research group listings. This is an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral researchers in engineering, natural sciences, and related fields to join a leading European research institution and advance their academic careers.