PhD in Microbial Extracellular Electron Exchange – University of Turku

Key details

• Host institution: University of Turku
• Location: University of Turku, Tykistökatu 4, Turku, Finland
• Application deadline: August 3, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Application portal / instructions: Official application link.
• Context on Euraxess: Original listing.

About the position

We are seeking a PhD candidate to investigate extracellular electron exchange between photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic microorganisms, focusing on the underlying molecular mechanisms and regulation, with consideration of potential biotechnological applications.

Position Details

This position is based in the Wey Group within the Molecular Plant Biology unit, Department of Life Technologies at the University of Turku, Finland. The group researches “bioelectricity in photosynthetic organisms” and will include 8 members by the end of 2026 (2 postdocs, 3 PhDs, 2 MScs). The main supervisor is Dr Laura Wey, an Academy of Finland Research Fellow, and the co-supervisor is Dr Pablo Ortega Martinez, a Postdoctoral Fellow leading his own Novo Nordisk Foundation-funded project on regulation of photosynthesis by carbon metabolism intermediates. This PhD position is funded by Wey’s Emerging Investigator grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Expected Qualifications

• MSc or equivalent in plant science, molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, biochemistry, biophysics, or another relevant field. Candidates close to completing their degree may also be considered.
• Previous experience in biological, biochemical, or biophysical research (including thesis work, internships, or undergraduate projects).
• Excellent spoken and written English.
• Any of the following skills are considered advantageous: cyanobacterial or algal cell culturing; experience with photosynthesis measurement techniques (spectroscopy, gas exchange); microscopy techniques; molecular biology and gene editing skills; coding skills (R or similar).

Additional Requirements

The selected candidate must apply for study rights in a doctoral programme during the next possible application period (Autumn 2026). Until study rights are granted, the title will be Project Researcher. If the MSc certificate has not been received before starting, the title will be Research Assistant and the position will initially be for a short period.

We Offer

• Dynamic and stimulating research environment in a new group within one of the world’s leading photosynthesis research laboratories.
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure for photosynthesis research (PHOTOSYN) and microscopy (Bioscience Turku Centre).
• Training in experimental techniques.
• International research collaboration and networking opportunities.
• Opportunity to influence the development of your own research project.
• Flexible work arrangements supporting a healthy work-life balance.
• A working culture emphasising accessibility and equality.

Period of Employment and Salary

This is a 3-year funded PhD position. The preferred start date is as soon as possible after 1 September 2026, negotiable depending on graduation timeline and relocation arrangements. A six-month trial period applies. Salary is determined by the Finnish university collective agreement system. For a Doctoral Researcher or Project Researcher, the salary range is 2500–2600 €/month. For a Research Assistant (before MSc or equivalent is received), the range is 2300–2400 €/month on average.

About the University and Location

University of Turku is a world-class research university with over 20,000 students and 3,300 employees. The city of Turku is located in the Archipelago Sea in Southwestern Finland, offering a range of free-time activities.

How to Apply

Apply through the University of Turku website, uploading the following documents in English:

1. Letter of motivation (max 1 page).
2. CV (max 2 pages).
3. Copy of MSc degree certificate or equivalent, or expected date of certification. If not in Finnish or English, include an official English translation (at your own cost).
4. Contact details of three referees (name, relationship, workplace, position, and email).

Application deadline: 3 August 2026. Interviews will be held remotely in the first two weeks of August. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis; shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview before the closing date.

For further information about the position, contact PI Laura Wey ([email protected]). For help with the application process, contact HR Specialist Paula Luoma ([email protected]).