Vesa-Pekka Lehto
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2 weeks ago
Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student), Development of Nanovectors for Cancer Immunotherapy University of Eastern Finland in Finland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 7, 2026
Country
Finland
University
University of Eastern Finland
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About this position
The University of Eastern Finland is recruiting a Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) for a project on development of nanovectors for cancer immunotherapy at the Department of Technical Physics on the Kuopio campus in Finland.
This is a fixed-term PhD position running from 1 October 2026 (or as agreed) until 31 August 2030. The work is embedded in a cross-disciplinary consortium project, Cancer immunotherapy utilizing multifunctional vector technology, PET imaging and metabolic MRI, funded by the Research Council of Finland.
The project aims to develop a novel preclinical immunotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). It combines photothermal therapy and radiotherapy to trigger immunogenic cell death and improve the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors. In parallel, the consortium is advancing PET and MRI methods to monitor therapy-induced cell death in preclinical animal models.
The doctoral researcher will contribute to the design and development of multifunctional inorganic nanovectors, including radiolabelling and physicochemical characterization. Responsibilities include experimental research aligned with the project goals, in vitro functionality testing, contribution to in vivo evaluation, coordination with consortium partners, reporting, scientific publishing, and support for funding applications.
Applicants must be eligible for postgraduate studies and hold, or be close to completing, a Master’s degree in materials science, physics, chemistry, biomedicine, or a related field. A good command of written and spoken English is required. The university notes that students in the final stages of their Master’s degree may apply, provided they complete the degree and submit the certificate by 15 September 2026. Admission criteria for the LUMETO doctoral programme must also be met.
Preferred experience includes nanomaterial characterization, radiolabeled nanovector development, cell work, and knowledge of cancer biology. Strong communication skills, independence, and motivation for research are emphasized.
The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,710–2,845/month, with salary determined under the Finnish university collective agreement. The application deadline is 7 September 2026.
Contact: Professor Vesa-Pekka Lehto ([email protected]) for the position; HR Specialists Iiris Korhonen and Noora Hämäläinen for application procedure questions.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Eligible for postgraduate studies; hold a Master’s degree in materials science, physics, chemistry, biomedicine or a related field from a university or university of applied sciences, or have completed an applicable study programme abroad that confers eligibility for corresponding postgraduate education; meet the student admission criteria for the LUMETO doctoral programme; have a good command of written and spoken English. Students in the final stages of a Master’s degree may also apply if they complete the degree and provide the degree certificate by 2026-09-15. Preferred advantages include wide experience in physicochemical characterization methods of nanomaterials, previous experience in the development of radiolabeled nanovectors, experience working with cells, and knowledge of cancer biology. Also expected are good communication skills, ability to work independently, and strong motivation for science and learning new things.
How to apply
Apply through the electronic application form by 2026-09-07 23:59 Finnish time. Include a CV, publication list, degree certificates and diplomas, language proficiency documents if needed, transcript of records, a motivation letter, and other documents demonstrating your merits. If your degree certificate is not in English, Finnish, or Swedish, provide official English translations issued by the institution or an authorized translator.
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