Post-doctoral researcher, Molecular Plant Biology, at Turku, Finland

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate extracellular electron uptake in photosynthetic bacteria (cyanobacteria), focusing on underlying molecular mechanisms and regulation, and with consideration of possible biotechnological applications.

The position is based in the Bioelectricity Group (Wey Group) within the Molecular Plant Biology unit, Department of Life Technologies at the University of Turku, Finland. The group conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of biology, physics, and electrochemistry, combining bioelectrochemical methods, spectroscopy, and multi-omics approaches to uncover the principles of biological electricity generation and utilisation.

The principal investigator, Dr. Laura T. Wey, is funding the research group (of 8 including 2 postdocs, 3 PhDs, 2 MScs by end of 2026) including this postdoctoral researcher position by an Emerging Investigator grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation and an Academy Research Fellowship from the Research Council of Finland.

Who we are looking for

Expected qualifications

  • A PhD in bioelectrochemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, electrochemistry, biophysics, cell biology, or other relevant field
  • Excellent spoken and written English
  • Significant experience in electrochemical, biological, biochemical, or biophysical research
  • Proficiency in experimental design, statistical analysis, and visualization of data

Any of the following skills are considered an advantage:

  • Experience culturing electrogenic microorganisms
  • Experience with extracellular electron uptake in microorganisms
  • Coding skills (R, Python, LabTalk, or similar)
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams
  • Experience in mentoring or supervising students
  • A strong publication record

The qualifications for the positions are specified in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure https://www.utu.fi/en/university/organisation

Our selection criteria are based on the principle of finding the most qualified and suitable candidate for the job. In practice, this means that not only education, publications and working experience but also personal qualities, communication, motivation, and other relevant criteria will be considered.

We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Apply between and

Benefits

  • Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for photosynthesis research (including new JTS-150), electrochemistry research (including new SECM) and omics/imaging research (Bioscience Turku Centre)
  • Training in existing experimental techniques
  • International research collaboration and networking
  • Opportunity to influence the development of your own research project
  • Mentoring
  • Flexible work arrangements supporting a healthy work-life balance

Please read more about University of Turku as an employer from our Come work with us! pages.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers. 

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:

The University of Turku is among the top of the world’s universities in most rankings and among the best universities in the world in certain fields. Our high-quality basic research, a multidisciplinary research profile and close cooperation in research infrastructures creates the basis for international top research. Read more about University of Turku in international university rankings.

The University of Turku has several high-quality research infrastructures required for cutting-edge research. Learn more about the roadmap of research infrastructures and how the research infrastructure and expert teams offer tailored solutions for businesses and organizations.

Salary and trial period

The earliest start date is 10 August 2026 and may be negotiated depending on the selected candidate and their PhD defense timeline or relocation arrangements to Turku, Finland, if needed. The position is a fixed-term, two-year contract and is subject to a six-month trial period.

The salary is determined by the collective agreement system of the Finnish universities. This position belongs to our research personnel and the salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is 3700 - 3800 euros/month in average. If the candidate does not yet have their PhD certificate, they will first be first hired for a short period of time as a Research Assistant/ Project Researcher where the salary is 2300 - 2500 euros/month in average.

How to apply

Please apply through the UTU website, where you need to upload the following documents in English:

1) Letter of motivation, including a brief introduction of your expertise in relation to the requirement points above (max 1 page).

2) CV (max 4 pages).

3) Copies of PhD certificate, or right to defend. If the certificate is not in Finnish or English, an official English translation is required at your own cost.

4) Contact details of three referees, e.g. prior academic supervisors or persons acquainted with you and your work (name, relationship, work place, position, and email).

5) Possible other documents showcasing the candidate’s merits and suitableness for the position, e.g. key publication.

The deadline for applications is 30 June 2026. Interviews will be held remotely in the first two weeks of July. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview prior to the closing date.

For further information about the position, please contact  PI Laura Wey laura.wey(at)utu.fi. If you need help with the application process, please contact our HR Specialist Paula Luoma(at)utu.fi.

 

Department of Life Technologies

The Department of Life Technologies is one of the largest teaching and research units at the University of Turku. Professionals of both science and technology are educated in four mutually supportive fields: biochemistry, biotechnology, food sciences, and molecular plant biology. The research focuses on biomolecules and their reactions as well as aims to find out how nature functions at the cellular and molecular levels. This information is used in the applications of different fields and at the same time it enables versatile collaboration between research communities, businesses and industry.

The Faculty of Technology is the newest faculty of the University of Turku, it was established in the beginning of 2021. The Faculty consists of the Department of Computing, Department of Biotechnology and the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering. We have more than 2,000 graduate and postgraduate students and circa 400 employees, 50 of whom are professors. Our faculty is an international, multicultural and diverse work community.

The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.

See our open vacancies

HR Excellence in Research Logo

Homepage LinkedIn Facebook Youtube Instagram

Information for the applicant

The application form cannot be saved as a draft. However, after submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.

You have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout.

Instructions for submitting a job application

Logo

Post-doctoral researcher, Molecular Plant Biology, at Turku, Finland

Are you sure you want to withdraw this application?

Back to form
Saving changes
Saved!