The University of Turku invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher / Project Researcher position in AI-Enabled Drug Discovery, supervised by Professor Olli Pentikäinen at the MedChem.fi Laboratory, Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine. The position is fixed-term from 1 March 2026 to 28 February 2028, with a possibility for extension. The MedChem.fi Laboratory is renowned for its interdisciplinary research in computational medicinal chemistry, AI-driven drug discovery, and synthesis, collaborating with experimental medicinal chemistry, structural biology, pharmacology, proteomics, and academic and industrial partners across Finland, including the University of Oulu.

The research project focuses on developing artificial intelligence models to accelerate drug discovery and explore broader chemical space. The aim is to create robust, physics-informed and data-driven models that generalize well to out-of-distribution data, addressing bottlenecks in resource-intensive experimental workflows. By integrating physical principles and biological data within a closed-loop discovery platform, the project enables iterative identification, optimization, and validation of novel therapeutic candidates. The work is highly collaborative, involving continuous feedback between computational modelling, synthesis, and biological evaluation, and offers a unique opportunity to advance methods that push the boundaries of current drug discovery workflows.

The doctoral research will center on AI-enabled methods for drug discovery, with the exact topic tailored to the candidate’s background and interests. Tasks include developing, implementing, and validating computational methods relevant to drug discovery, and collaborating in a multidisciplinary research environment. The successful applicant must hold a higher university degree (e.g., Master’s degree) in a relevant field, possess strong analytical and computational skills, proficiency in Python and scientific computing environments, hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks (such as Pytorch or JAX), high motivation for PhD studies, good communication skills, and fluency in English. Prior experience in quantum computing, quantum theory, or quantum-inspired modelling is advantageous. BSc-level candidates may apply if their Master’s degree is nearly completed; in such cases, the initial job title will be Research Assistant.

The University of Turku offers a state-of-the-art research environment, access to high-performance computing resources including national supercomputing facilities (CSC LUMI and ROIHU), and rich experimental validation opportunities. Career development is supported through multidisciplinary collaboration, scientific publishing, and professional networking. Additional benefits include versatile training, free Open University courses, comprehensive occupational health care, well-being services, flexible working hours, and remote work options. The university is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, and provides excellent support for international hires.

Salary for entry-level Doctoral Researchers is €2510-2700 per month, and for Research Assistants €2281-2427 per month. The position includes a maximum six-month trial period. Applications must be submitted via the online recruitment system by 18 February 2026, including a motivation letter, CV, degree certificate and transcript, list of publications or relevant material, and contact information for two referees. For further information, contact Professor Olli Pentikäinen ([email protected]). Additional support is available from HR Specialist Kristiina Nuutila and HR Secretary Kati Rantanen.

The Institute of Biomedicine at the Faculty of Medicine is a leading international research and education unit, with research priorities in infection and immunity, integrative physiology and pharmacology, and cancer research. The University of Turku is among the top global universities, offering a vibrant academic community and a sustainable future through multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration.