Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences create a unique environment for multidisciplinary, inspirational and high-impact research and education. Our university community has its competitive edges in technology, health and society. www.tuni.fi/en
Tampere University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Polymer Chemistry and Materials group within the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences. Our research focuses on novel strategies for polymer synthesis, tailored structures and complex architectures, and sustainable polymers. We are a young and growing team, expected to double in size in 2026, and work closely with the Chemistry and Advanced Materials (CAM) sub-unit, which comprises eight research groups and approximately 90 members with expertise in chemistry, functional materials, and light-based technologies.
The appointed postdoctoral researcher will contribute to a project investigating new photocatalysts for polymer synthesis, aiming to broaden the range of polymers accessible through photopolymerisation. Depending on the candidate’s expertise and previous research experience, the role may focus on synthetic chemistry, spectroscopy, or other project-relevant areas. The primary responsibility will be conducting research within the project. Additional duties include training students and postdoctoral researchers in synthesis and/or material characterisation, promoting safe laboratory practices, supporting doctoral researchers in their research and education, and assisting with manuscript preparation, reporting, and grant writing. The position may also involve a small amount of teaching. Professional development during the appointment will be a shared objective of the postdoctoral researcher and the supervisor.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will have:
• A PhD in chemistry, materials science, or a closely related field
• A strong background in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, or photochemistry
• Excellent self-management and communication skills
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken
• The ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment, in alignment with Tampere University’s values
Previous experience with Schlenk techniques, chemical structure analysis (e.g., NMR, MS), polymer characterisation (e.g., SEC, DSC, rheology), 3D printing, or time-resolved spectroscopy will be considered an advantage.
We offer
The Faculty provides world-class research infrastructure for polymer chemistry and is particularly well equipped for studies involving light-related phenomena. In 2026, we will relocate to brand-new laboratories in the Noodi building, designed to support cutting-edge interdisciplinary research. CAM encompasses diverse areas of expertise and maintains extensive national and international networks, offering excellent opportunities for collaboration and professional development.
We offer a fixed-term contract for 12 months, with the possibility of extension to 24 months. A trial period of six (6) months applies to all new employees. The preferred starting date is early 2026 or as mutually agreed.
The position includes a monthly personal grant supplemented by a part-time employment contract with Tampere University. The combined net income corresponds to the typical starting salary of a full-time employee, approximately €3,900 per month.
We offer you the opportunity to join our dynamic and innovative international community. As a member of staff at Tampere University, you will enjoy a range of competitive benefits, such as occupational health care services, flexible work schedule, versatile research infrastructure, modern teaching facilities and a safe and inviting campus area as well as a personal fund to spend on sports and cultural activities in your free time. Please read more about working at Tampere University. You can also find more information about us and working and living in Tampere by watching our video: Tampere Higher Education Community - our academic playground.
Tampere is the largest inland city in Finland and is considered a major academic hub in the Nordic countries. The region is home to a vibrant, knowledge-intensive entrepreneurial community, and the city is an industrial powerhouse with a rich cultural scene and a reputation as a centre of Finland's information society. Additionally, Finland is known for being one of the most stable, free, and safe countries in the world, based on various ratings by prominent agencies. Tampere is surrounded by stunning nature, with forests and lakes offering countless opportunities for easy-to-access outdoor adventures and refreshment throughout the year.
Read more about Finland and Tampere:
- Visit Finland
- This is Finland
- Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment: Welcome to Finland
- Visit Tampere
How to Apply
Please submit your application through our online system no later than 5 January 2026 (23:59 EET, UTC+2).
Applications should include the following documents in PDF format:
1. Curriculum vitae
2. Cover letter outlining your previous experience and relevant skills, motivation for applying, your interests and objectives for the postdoctoral period, and your availability
3. List of publications, including a brief description of your contribution to each and a link to your PhD thesis (if available)
Applications will be reviewed continuously during the application period, and suitable candidates may be invited to an online interview before the deadline.
For further information, please contact Assistant Professor Satu Häkkinen, [email protected].
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Tehtävänkuvaus
Etsimme tutkijatohtoria polymeerikemian ja -materiaalien tutkimusryhmään osaksi projektia, jossa tutkimme uusia valokatalyyttejä polymeerien synteesiin. Projektin tavoitteena on laajentaa valopolymeroinnin avulla valmistettavien polymeerien valikoimaa. Hakijan asiantuntemuksesta ja aiemmasta kokemuksesta riippuen, tehtävä voi painottua synteesikemiaan, spektroskopiaan, tai muihin projektin osa-alueisiin.
Hakuohjeet
Lue tarkemmat tiedot tehtävästä ja hakuohjeet yllä olevasta englanninkielisestä ilmoituksesta.
Hakuaika tehtävään päättyy 5.1.2026 klo 23:59.
Lisätietoja tehtävästä antaa apulaisprofessori Satu Häkkinen, [email protected].