Postdoctoral Researcher in Synthetic Organic Chemistry
The Department of chemistry is seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher in Synthetic Organic Chemistry starting April 1st, 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter, for a duration of 21 months. The position is fixed-term, as it is related to the research project EXATH.
We are looking for a candidate to join us in the research project EXATH (Electrocatalytic X-atom and Hydride Transfer), funded by the Research Council Finland, and led by Prof. Petri Pihko. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work in the field of synthetic electrochemistry and molecular design. The work builds on our previous publications: (1) Advanced Energy Materials 2024 (DOI: 10.1002/aenm.202401635) and Angewandte Chemie International Edition 2016, 55, 669 (DOI: 10.1002/anie.201509302). The research integrates electrochemistry, molecular design, and development of novel synthetic methods.
The job requires willingness to travel, and we expect the candidate to agree to a mobility period /research visit to the laboratory of our collaborator (University of Greenwich, UK, Prof. Kevin Lam) for a period of approximately 2-4 months during autumn 2026.
Who we are looking for
The successful candidate is expected to have a publication track record and a completed Ph.D. thesis in the field of synthetic organic chemistry. The Ph.D or equivalent degree must have been awarded before the start date of the position. In addition, we expect the ability to plan, execute, document and communicate the research in a multidisciplinary research environment. Prior experience in enantioselective catalysis, synthetic electrochemistry or photochemistry, natural product synthesis and/or molecular design is considered an asset. In addition, experience in computational chemistry will also be a bonus, but the main focus of the work is experimental research in synthetic organic chemistry.
The duties, qualification requirements, and language skills of a Postdoctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before the starting date. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment period.
Benefits
At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You will join an international, multidisciplinary community that values individual well-being. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. For information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
The salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 5–6 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately 3600-4800 €/month (gross income), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.
How to apply?
Please ensure that your ORCID profile (https://orcid.org) is active and up to date, with your publications listed and public visibility set on (Set visibility: Everyone). You cannot apply to this job without an ORCID profile.
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
A Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
A short and free-form motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including your research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
A numbered list of all scientific publications and other publications showing the applicant's ability and merits for the position using the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland.
Degree certificate (highest degree).
Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by December 7, 2025. Applications sent via email will not be considered.
For further information, please contact Professor Petri Pihko, petri.pihko@jyu.fi.
We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARA principles.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
Department of Chemistry
The Department of Chemistry is internationally renowned for its high-quality research and teaching. We offer comprehensive, research-based chemistry education that crosses traditional subject boundaries and fosters a strong sense of community. Our teaching is being modernized through careful, collaborative efforts. The department’s key research areas include functional molecules and materials, chemical nanoscience, circular economy, and chemistry education. The department provides access to up-to-date chemistry infrastructure, including NMR, mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, ICP analytics, and laser laboratories. Additionally, the Nanoscience Center offers high-quality infrastructure for nanofabrication and characterization. With a broad range of advanced tools, equipment and infrastructure, we support high-level international research collaborations and diverse teaching opportunities. We also have research groups that develop and apply density functional theory and other theoretical methods to understand and support experimental research related to hydrogen production and storage. Central to our approach is close cooperation within the department, faculty and with external partners, as demonstrated by the shared use of research facilities. We value in-depth fundamental research and the development of innovative applications built upon it. With a community of around 130 people, we have a significant proportion of international staff, enriching our work with diverse expertise and perspectives.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
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