The Natural Chemistry Research Group at the Department of Chemistry is recruiting a doctoral researcher / project researcher for a fixed-term position.

The doctoral candidate will be working in the Department of Chemistry in a research project funded by the Research Council of Finland:” Unexplored potential of diverse plant metabolites to enhance sustainable bioeconomy and carbon sinks from forest biomasses” (1.1.2026-31.12.2029). The fixed term position starts at the earliest on the 1st of June 2026 or upon mutual agreement, and lasts three years at the most.

Job description

The MetaFor project aims to promote a sustainable bioeconomy by utilizing forest biomass in innovative ways, following circular economy principles. It focuses on insoluble metabolites in forest industry residues, which can stabilize organic carbon and immobilize nitrogen, enhancing soil carbon sinks. MetaFor will study the chemistry of these insoluble fractions, particularly condensed tannins, and their effects on plant growth, soil interactions, decomposition of organic material, and nitrogen cycling using advanced chemical analyses and growth experiments. The project explores replacing peat with forest industry side streams to reduce carbon footprints and increase carbon sequestration in soils, translating research into practical innovations that mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity.

In addition to research work, the duties of a doctoral researcher/project researcher include the guidance of the bachelor's and master's level exercises in chemistry.

Expectations for the candidate

• The candidates must have high motivation to do research.
• The candidates must hold a master degree (MSc) or equivalent degree in chemistry or corresponding field, or will graduate soon.
• The candidates should have a proven experience in the field of tannin chemistry, especially in tannin analytics and characterization and bioactivity measurements
• The candidates should have the expertise and working experience with NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.
• The applicants need to have the ability to conduct independent scientific work.
• The candidates should have good English skills.

The qualification requirements of the position state in the University of Turku’s Rules of Procedure: https://www.utu.fi/en/university/organisation. In the case the selected candidate does not yet have the right to study for a doctoral degree at the University of Turku, the title of Project Researcher will  used at first, and the study right for a doctoral degree should be applied in the next possible call (autumn 2026): University of Turku Graduate School (UTUGS) and Doctoral Programs. If the candidate is close to graduation (MSc or equivalent), an employment contract is initially made under the title of a research assistant and the right to study for a doctoral degree is applied for after graduation in the next possible call (autumn 2026).