The University of Turku is a world-class multidisciplinary research university, hosting a vibrant community of 25,000 students and employees from over 100 different countries. As one of the leading universities in Finland, University of Turku offers study and research opportunities in eight faculties. The Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering in the Faculty of Technology brings together experts from a wide range of disciplines including mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics and mathematics, as well as computer science, to develop solutions for future technologies and key societal challenges.
We invite applications for one Postdoctoral Researcher position in the field of soft robotics to join the Soft Robotics and Adaptive Systems research group (SOFTA lab, PI: Assistant Professor Anastasia Koivikko) in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at the University of Turku.
The planned starting date of the task is September 1, 2026, or as mutually agreed by both parties, but no later than November 1, 2026. The position is full-time, and it will be filled for a fixed-term period of 3 years from the starting date of employment.
SOFTA Lab is an interdisciplinary research group focusing on soft robotics, stretchable sensors, and advanced manufacturing methods. Our group works on next-generation soft robotic systems, combining novel materials, fabrication techniques, and mechanical design to create devices that push the boundaries of compliant and adaptive robotics. You will contribute to work on metamaterial soft grippers, focusing on developing new fabrication methods such as 3D printing technologies to manufacture these structures and achieve programmable, dexterous grasping capabilities. This role offers an exciting chance to shape emerging technologies that bridge materials science, mechanical engineering, and robotics.
Your Role
We are looking for a talented Postdoctoral Researcher to join an upcoming Horizon Europe project focused on developing metamaterial soft grippers for advanced robotic applications. In this role, you will develop new fabrication technologies for manufacturing metamaterial structures, with a particular focus on volumetric additive manufacturing. This includes designing the optical systems and exposure control needed for precise, high-resolution fabrication of complex metamaterial geometries, as well as designing, modelling, and testing the resulting devices. This is a hands-on position combining fabrication technology development, optical and dose modelling, design, and experimental work in an international research project.
The selected candidate will be able to focus on their research full-time, work independently while collaborating closely with the research team, and contribute to shaping the direction of the project at the Automation Unit in the University of Turku. In addition to conducting research, the duties of a postdoctoral researcher may include supervising doctoral and graduate students, contributing to grant writing, and participating in faculty tasks that support the group's research activities.
Who we are looking for
The following skills are essential:
- A PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
- A solid track record of publishing in relevant scientific journals
- Expertise in optical system design and light-based additive manufacturing methods, particularly volumetric or vat photopolymerization, with an interest in applying these techniques to the fabrication of soft or compliant structures
- Strong fluid dynamics and/or optics simulation skills, ideally in Abacus, COMSOL or Python
- Excellent Writing and communication skills in English and the ability to work independently as well as in collaborative teams
The qualification requirements of the positions are stated in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure: https://www.utu.fi/en/university/organisation.
Priority will be given to candidates who have completed their PhD within the last six months (counted from the date of PhD defense) or are in the final year of their doctoral studies and are expected to defend their thesis within 6 months of the employment start date. In such cases, the candidate may initially be hired as a Project Researcher and will transition to the Postdoctoral Researcher position upon completion of their doctoral degree. At UTU a higher university degree is essential to be a Project Researcher.
What We offer
The University of Turku is a multidisciplinary and internationally oriented research university, renowned for its high-quality research and strong industry collaboration. At the University of Turku, we offer you responsible and meaningful tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a diverse and inspiring working environment. You will be supported by a skilled and collaborative team, and we are committed to your well-being and work–life balance through flexible working arrangements and dedicated well-being services. Please read more about the University of Turku as an employee from our Come work with us! pages.
The European Commission has granted the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research logo, recognizing our commitment to continuously improving the working conditions and career development of researchers in line with the European Charter for Researchers.
The university also offers excellent support and orientation for international hires. Learn more about Finnish culture, relocation, and life in Turku:
Salary and trial period
The salaries are determined in accordance with the university salary system for teaching and research personnel. For a Postdoctoral Researcher, the salary at the beginning of the employment will be approximately 3700-3900 €/month. For a project researcher, the salary at the beginning of employment will be approximately 3100-3300 €/month. There is a trial period of six (6) months for this position.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted by 7th August 2026 (16.00), using the electronic application form of the University of Turku on the following address: https://www.utu.fi/en/university/come-work-with-us/open-vacancies The link to the application system is at the beginning of this announcement (Apply for this job).
Applications should include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), according to TENK guidelines
- A list of publications (including all contributions such as conference proceedings, book chapters, journals etc.)
- Copies of degree diplomas (Master´s and PhD)
- Official transcripts of academic records
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages) explaining how your background and skills, as described in your CV, match the requirements of this position
- PhD thesis progress certificate from your thesis supervisor (mandatory only if the PhD is not yet completed): This letter should state the current progress of your PhD work and the expected date of thesis defense and graduation.
- Other relevant documents, e.g. recommendation letters (max. 2)
Further information
For further information about the position, please contact: Assistant Professor Anastasia Koivikko, anastasia.koivikko@utu.fi
