Claire Smith

Doctoral Researcher in Blood donor surveillance for emerging pathogens at the University of Turku, Finland, within the EU-funded DETECTIVE Doctoral Network. DETECTIVE (Data-driven Excellence in Training of Epidemiological, Clinical, Technological and Innovative Virus Experts) is a Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network coordinated by the University of Turku. The network trains early-stage researchers in epidemic intelligence, emerging virus surveillance, diagnostics, genomics, epidemiology, and public health preparedness across Europe. This specific doctoral project focuses on developing innovative approaches for monitoring emerging pathogens through large-scale blood donor surveillance. The project integrates serological, genomic, epidemiological, and demographic data to study pathogen circulation and population exposure, with the aim of improving epidemic intelligence and preparedness. The position is hosted at the University of Turku and the place of work is Turku, Finland. It starts on 1 March 2027 and is funded for 36 months. The successful candidate will work as Doctoral Candidate (DC3) contributing to Work Package 3. The role includes establishing and coordinating blood donor sample collection networks, analysing demographic and risk-related data, implementing targeted sampling strategies in regions at risk for arbovirus introduction, developing serological assays and next-generation sequencing approaches, and collaborating with international partners. Supervision is provided by Professor Heli Harvala and Professor Peter Simmonds at the University of Turku, with additional mentoring from Dr Maria Farcet (Takeda, Austria) and Professor Claire Smith (University College London, UK). The position includes international secondments at University College London and Takeda, offering experience in both academic and industrial environments. Funding is fully provided under the MSCA Doctoral Networks programme (Grant Agreement No. 101312731). The financial package includes a living allowance of €4,010 per month, a mobility allowance of €710 per month, and, where applicable, a family allowance of €660 per month, subject to MSCA rules and the Finnish country correction coefficient. Eligibility highlights include a relevant Master’s degree, eligibility for doctoral studies at the University of Turku, strong English communication skills, interest in infectious disease research, and compliance with MSCA mobility rules. Applicants must not have spent more than 12 months in Finland during the 36 months before recruitment and must not already hold a doctoral degree. The application deadline is 8 October 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Helsinki). Applicants must submit their application through the University of Turku recruitment system and complete the DETECTIVE online application form. Required documents include a CV, motivation letter, degree certificates and transcripts, referee details, and optional supporting documents. Shortlisted candidates will go through a two-stage interview process in late October and November 2026, with recruitment expected to be completed by December 2026.