POSTDOCTORAL OR DOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN PHOTOCATALYTIC RADICAL CHEMISTRY Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Or Doctoral Researcher In Photocatalytic Radical Chemistry

The University of Helsinki, Department of Chemistry, invites applications for a postdoctoral or doctoral researcher position in photocatalytic radical chemistry at the newly established Lahdenperä Group. Initially, the position is fixed-term for 12-months with a possibility of an extension. The successful candidate will join an organic chemistry research group at the Department of Chemistry located at Kumpula campus. The research group aims to develop new concepts for controlling radical reactivity in photocatalytic transformations. The project focuses on the development of new approaches for controlling radical reactivity through hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) at surfaces and interfaces.

Highlights of PI's previous work on photochemistry:

• Science (2024): Chiral hydrogen atom abstraction catalysts for the enantioselective epimerization of meso diols.
• JACS (2025): Catalytic deracemization of 1,2-aminoalcohols through enantioselective hydrogen atom abstraction.
• JACS (2022): Enantioselective Giese additions of prochiral α-amino radicals, establishing new methods for asymmetric radical C-C bond formation.

The project will involve:

• Development and optimisation of photocatalytic radical transformations
• Mechanistic studies of radical reactions and detailed investigation of HAT processes
• Surface functionalization and interface chemistry
• Design and synthesis of organic molecules

The postdoctoral researcher will additionally be expected to contribute to the supervision of students and participate in future funding applications.

Requirements:

Postdoctoral Researcher: Applicants must hold a PhD degree in chemistry or a closely related field by the start of employment, or be close to completion of their doctoral studies. Consideration will be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas: synthetic organic chemistry, photocatalysis, radical chemistry, hydrogen atom transfer processes, reaction mechanism studies, flow chemistry.

Doctoral Researcher: Applicants must hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in chemistry or a closely related discipline that qualifies them for doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki. Previous experience in organic synthesis, photochemistry, catalysis or related experimental chemistry is advantageous but not required.

We are looking for candidates who are: highly motivated and scientifically curious, willing to develop new experimental skills, persistent and independent in tackling challenging research questions. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are required.

Salary and benefits: The salary follows the salary system of University salary system and is based on the researcher's qualifications, experience, and stage of doctoral or postdoctoral career. For postdoctoral researchers, the starting salary will be approximately 3900–4200 €/month. For doctoral researcher the starting salary will be approximately 2600–2800 €/month. University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, sports facilities, and ample opportunities for professional development and language studies.

How to apply: Applications should include: Curriculum vitae, including a publication list (if applicable). A concise motivation letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, reasons for applying and career plans. Please indicate your desired starting date in the application. Degree certificate (PhD for postdoctoral applicants; Master's degree for doctoral researcher applicants). If you are interviewed, you will be asked for contact details for two references. The deadline for applications is October 16th, 2026. Ideally, the selected candidate will start as soon as possible, although flexibility in the starting date can be arranged.