Vesa-Pekka Lehto

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.