Doctoral Researcher (Novel Photochemistry Systems for Light-Triggered Hydrogels) - Tampereen yliopisto - Tampere, Finland

The Smart Photonic Materials (SPM) research group is seeking a doctoral researcher for PhD studies on developing novel photochemistry systems for light-triggered hydrogel systems within the framework of the Research council of Finland project. The SPM group focuses on the development of functional and responsive soft materials and their applications in photonics, biosciences, 3D bioprinting, and soft robotics. The group is part of the Chemistry & Advanced Materials (CAM) research cluster, the PREIN Flagship on Photonics Research and Innovation, and the LIBER Centre of Excellence, offering a vivid and international research environment. Job description The PhD project will focus on the design, optimization, synthesis, and characterization of novel low-energy-light-activated photochemical systems for hydrogel crosslinking. Recent works from the group demonstrate the potential of low-energy light for 3D printing/bioprinting and light-triggered drug release (e.g. Adv. Mater. 2025; Analyst 2025; ChemRxiv 2026; Adv. Opt. Mater.). A central goal of the PhD project is to develop these materials and expand their application potential in light-based 3D bioprinting, drug-eluting implants, and on-demand drug release. While the overall research direction is guided by the project objectives, both the scientific focus and specific responsibilities can be tailored to align with the candidate’s skills, experience, and research interests. The doctoral researcher will collaborate closely within a multidisciplinary team, publish results in leading peer-reviewed journals, and present findings at international conferences. The position also includes a possibility for international research mobility to the laboratories of our collaboration partners. Applicants are expected to meet the following criteria: Educational Qualification: A master’s degree in (photo)chemistry, materials science, polymer chemistry or a closely related field by the start of employment. Technical Proficiency: Background in experimental materials research. Experience with hydrogels, photocrosslinking, photopolymerization, 3D printing, light based 3D printing, drug delivery, rheology, mechanical characterization, or cell-material interactions will be considered an advantage. Language Skills: Good proficiency in written and spoken English is required for scientific communication and publishing. Knowledge of Finnish is not required. Working Style: Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary, international research team. Motivation for doctoral studies and a proactive research attitude are expected. Please note that, the selected candidate must apply for a study right within the doctoral program at Tampere University, unless they already have one. Tampere University is a unique, multidisciplinary, forward-thinking, and evolving community. Our values are openness, critical thinking, diversity, learner-centeredness, courage, erudition, and responsibility. We offer The position will be filled for a fixed-term period of four years, the planned starting date is 1st of September 2026 or as mutually agreed by both parties. A trial period of six (6) months applies to all our new employees. The salary will be based on both the job requirements and the employee’s personal performance in accordance with the Finnish University Salary System. According to the criteria applied to teaching and research staff, the position of a Doctoral Researcher is placed on level 2-4 of the job requirements scale. A starting salary for Doctoral Researchers is typically ca. 3000 EUR/month. The salary increases based on experience and the progress of doctoral studies. 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.