1-3 doctoral researcher /Post-doctoral researcher positions in photosynthesis in Turku, Finland

Karlstad University; Turku; On-site; EUR 40 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent research university in Turku is seeking 1-3 doctoral and post-doctoral researchers to investigate various aspects of photosynthesis. Candidates will engage in cutting-edge research within a multicultural environment and contribute to the development of sustainable biotechnologies. A Master's degree in related fields and fluent English are required. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about advancing scientific knowledge.

Benefits

International research exposure

Collaborative work environment

Access to state-of-the-art equipment

Qualifications

• Master's degree in biotechnology, plant science, molecular biology, or biophysics.
• Fluent written and spoken English.
• Experience in research lab environments is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Investigate photosynthesis and its optimization.
• Participate in research exchanges with partner laboratories.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable biotechnologies.

Skills

Research skills

Knowledge of biotechnology

Fluent English

Team collaboration

Education

Master’s degree in biotechnology or related field

Job description

1-3 doctoral researcher /Post-doctoral researcher positions in photosynthesis in Turku, Finland

The University of Turku has a unique, creative and inspirational work environment. Here you will work with top experts, pedagogues and researchers.

About the Photosynthetic Microbes Research Group

We study the regulation of photosynthesis and apply photosynthetic principles to develop sustainable biotechnologies. Our research encompasses several areas, including the elucidation of photosynthetic electron transport pathways, engineering photosynthesis for enhanced bioproduction of solar chemicals, biophotovoltaic (BPV) systems, and large-scale algal cultivation for phytoremediation and the production of green chemicals such as biostimulants and biopesticides.

The truly international and large PhotoMicrobes group is involved in several EU, Nordic, and national projects and regularly publishes its research outcomes in highly respected journals. We have established a broad research network with connections to leading international laboratories and industrial partners. Our team members are not only active participants in international conferences but also regularly organize major symposia and meetings in Turku (e.g., the Nordic Photosynthesis Congress, the International Conference on Renewable Resources 2025, and the Nordic Algal Biotechnology Conference).

We are developing the national FIN-BioFoundry research infrastructure roadmap, which provides state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies. In addition, we are actively involved in science policymaking through the SYNERGY pan-European initiative.

To learn more about the Photosynthetic Microbes research group, you can visit our website at www.utu.fi/photo-microbes or follow us on LinkedIn and BlueSky at @PhotoMicrobes.

The PhotoFactory consortium aims to unleash photosynthesis from its inherent limitations to enhance the bioproduction efficiency of microalgae and cyanobacteria for solar-driven biomanufacturing. To achieve this goal, PhotoFactory integrates expertise in photosynthesis, synthetic biology, additive manufacturing, materials science, and data science. The recruited researchers will benefit from a well-established international and national network of collaborators.

Position Details

Position 1: Photosynthesis in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. The selected candidate will investigate alternative electron transport routes in this model cyanobacterium. The work will provide insights into energy distribution and regulatory mechanisms essential for optimizing photosynthetic performance.

Position 2: Electron transport in Anabaena sp. PCC 7120. This position focuses on elucidating electron transport processes within heterocysts, with an emphasis on nitrogen fixation and its integration with photosynthetic electron flow.

Position 3: The photosynthetic apparatus of Synechococcus sp. PCC 11901, a fast‑growing cyanobacterial model. The work will focus on the fundamental aspects of bioenergetics and will be linked to biotechnological applications.

Researchers will be trained to operate state-of-the-art instrumentation available within the FIN-BioFoundry infrastructure and will participate in research exchanges with partner laboratories.

Relevant Publications

• Nikkanen L et al. 2025. Flavodiiron proteins associate pH‑dependently with the thylakoid membrane for ferredoxin‑1‑powered O₂ photoreduction. New Phytologist. 246: 2084–2101 DOI: 10.1111/nph.70114
• Santana‑Sánchez A. et al. 2023 Flv3A facilitates O2 photoreduction and affects H2 photoproduction independently of Flv1A in diazotrophic Anabaena filaments. New Phytologist 237:126-139. DOI:10.1111/nph.18506.
• Siitonen V et al. 2023 Engineered green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as a whole‑cell photosynthetic biocatalyst for stepwise photoproduction of H2 and ε‑caprolactone. Green Chemistry 25, 5945-5955 DOI:10.1039/d3gc01400b
• Kosourov S et al. 2020. Water oxidation by photosystem II is the primary source of electrons for sustained H2 photoproduction in nutrient‑replete green algae. PNAS 117:29629–29636. DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2009210117

Who we are looking for

Applicants for the doctoral researcher/project researcher position must hold a Master’s degree (MSc) in biotechnology, plant science, molecular biology, biophysics, or a related field (good GPA is considered an asset). Students who have not yet completed their degree may also apply and start as research assistants. In such cases, the employment will be temporary until the Master’s degree is completed, after which the title will be updated to project researcher. Once the applicant has received the right to study and has been accepted into the UTUGS doctoral programme, the title will be updated to doctoral researcher.

Eligibility requirements for these positions are defined in the University of Turku's regulations: https://www.utu.fi/en/university/organisation. A postdoctoral researcher is required to hold a doctoral degree, and a doctoral researcher/project researcher must hold a Master’s degree.

If you are applying for the doctoral researcher position, you must apply for the right to pursue doctoral studies (in the spring/autumn 2026 application round) at the University of Turku. Please familiarize yourself with the student information and application criteria of the University of Turku Graduate School (UTUGS) and its doctoral programmes. Note that you must meet the criteria required for the position. Pay particular attention to the English language proficiency requirements. The position requires fluent written and spoken English skills.

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

How to apply

Applicants should enclose with their application:

• motivation letter, including statement of motivation, summarizing scientific work and research interest (max 1 page)
• CV, including education, positions, professional experience, names and contact details of two academic referees (max 2 pages)
• list of publications (please do not attach your thesis or papers)
• degree certificate(s) in English or in Finnish or officially translated to one of those languages

For further information about the position, please contact: professor Yagut Allahverdiyeva, [e-mail]

With questions about the application process, please contact: HR Specialist Paula Luoma, [e-mail] (during 3.10.2025 - 7.10.2025 please contact [e-mail])

This is an enriching job opportunity in a rapidly evolving field - we warmly welcome you to join our multicultural working community.

Department of Life Technologies

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.

Closing on: 2025-11-18 (Europe/Helsinki)

Closing on: 2025-11-24 (Europe/Helsinki)

Closing on: 2025-11-04 (Europe/Helsinki)

Closing on: 2025-10-28 (Europe/Helsinki)

Closing on: 2025-10-30 (Europe/Helsinki)