Doctoral Researcher / Project Researcher, Chemistry of Drug Development University of Turku in Finland

The Bioorganic Group in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Turku is recruiting a fixed-term Doctoral Researcher / Project Researcher in Chemistry of Drug Development. The position is linked to the Research Council of Finland funded project Chimeric MOANA-DNAzymes (CHIMODNAZ) (1.9.2026–31.8.2030), and is expected to start on 1 January 2027 or by mutual agreement.

The successful candidate will work on the development and analysis of post- and pre-SELEX-modified ligase DNA enzymes. The research includes synthesis, reaction kinetics, and in vitro evolution of small organic and organometallic molecules as well as oligonucleotides. The role is strongly research-oriented and also includes supervising bachelor’s and master’s thesis work.

This opportunity is suitable for a candidate aiming for a doctorate in chemistry or a closely related field. Required background includes an MSc (or equivalent), experience with conventional organic synthesis methods, the ability to work independently, and fluent English. The project may involve stays in Germany and the United States, so willingness to travel abroad is required. Experience with NMR, mass spectrometry, HPLC/UPLC, and oligonucleotide synthesis is considered an advantage.

If the selected person does not yet have doctoral study rights at the University of Turku, the title will initially be Project Researcher, with an application for doctoral study rights expected in the next possible call (spring/autumn 2027). If the candidate is close to graduation, the contract may first be offered as a Research Assistant until graduation and subsequent application for doctoral study rights.

Funding comes from the Research Council of Finland through the CHIMODNAZ project. The approximate monthly salary is 2,500–2,800 € for a doctoral researcher/project researcher, or 2,300–2,450 € for a research assistant. The appointment is fixed-term until 31 August 2030, with a six-month trial period.

Applications must include a CV, cover/motivation letter, a statement of current and future research interests with a doctoral research plan, and a copy of the MSc degree certificate or expected date of certification. If the certificate is not in Finnish, Swedish, or English, an official English translation is required. Applications must be submitted via the online recruitment system by 31 August 2026 at 16:00 (Europe/Helsinki).