Postdoctoral researcher in synthesis and analysis
Helsingin yliopisto · Helsinki
Onsitesenior💰 3,900–4,200 EURResearch · EducationPosted 08.09.2026 klo 03.00
Skills
chemistrycoordination chemistrymetal compoundscatalysisorganic synthesismechanochemistryanalytical techniquesgreen chemistryorganometallicsadvanced characterization
Job Description
Tiivistelmä työpaikkailmoituksesta: The University of Helsinki is hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher in Synthesis and Analysis for a fixed-term 12-month position (possible extension) starting as soon as possible in Dr. Anže Zupanc’s research group. The researcher will develop closed-loop dissolution/activation and scaled-up recycling methods for platinum group metals and rare-earth elements using green chemistry, organometallurgy and mechanochemistry, and will perform advanced characterization and student supervision. Applicants must hold a PhD in chemistry or a related field, have experience or strong interest in coordination chemistry, metal compounds, catalysis, organic synthesis, mechanochemistry and analytical techniques, and possess excellent English and high motivation. The starting salary is approximately 3900–4200 €/month, the position has a six-month trial period, and applicants should submit a CV with publications, a one-page research statement and a PhD certificate by October 8th. Tämä tiivistelmä on luotu tekoälyn avulla. The University of Helsinki ( https://www.helsinki.fi/en ), founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. The Department of Chemistry ( https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-science/faculty/chemistry ) at the Faculty of Science ( https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-science ) carries out research on chemistry and its applications at an international level and provides academic teaching based on high quality research. Dr. Anže Zupanc was recently awarded the Research Council of Finland Fellowship on recycling of the critical raw materials ( Sustainable Recycling of Critical Raw Materials with Chemicals from Secondary Sources - Research.fi ). He is starting to form his research group focusing on sustainable critical raw materials recycling, green organic synthesis and mechanochemistry. He and his evolving group are hosted at the Synthesis and Analysis floor by Professor Timo Repo’s Catalysis and Green Chemistry research group ( Catalysis and Green Chemistry | University of Helsinki ). The Department of Chemistry invites applications for one POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER position in Synthesis and Analysis. The successful applicant will join the developing research group at the Department of Chemistry. The position is fixed-term for 12 months with a possible extension. Employment starts as soon as possible. Position description The postdoctoral position funded by the Research Council of Finland aims to design closed-loop dissolution/activation laboratory and scaled-up methodologies for recycling platinum group metals and rare-earth elements using green chemicals energy- and resource-efficient approaches - including organometallurgy and mechanochemistry - complying with sustainable development, resource safety and circular economy. This interdisciplinary project lays on the interface between coordination chemistry, metal dissolution and organometallurgy, organic chemistry, methodology development and mechanochemistry. Postdoctoral researcher’s tasks will include the development of recycling protocols for different metals, advanced characterization of the reaction mixtures and obtained isolated materials. The work will also comprise help in the supervision of undergraduate, graduate and visiting students. The researcher is expected to present their findings in scientific meetings, prepare funding applications for travel and research grants, as well as prepare manuscripts for publication in international scientific journals. The position has a trial period of 6 months. Requirements Motivated, ambitious and self-driven candidates with a PhD degree in a relevant field (chemistry or related) interested in metal recycling are encouraged to apply. Experience in the fields of coordination complex chemistry, molecular metal compounds, homogeneous metal catalysis, organic synthesis, mechanochemistry of metals, as well as experience in analytical techniques including NMR, PXRD, HRMS and ICP-MS/AES are advantageous. Most importantly, you should have strong motivation for research in a highly multidisciplinary topic, enthusiasm to learn new things and contribute ideas, and possess the ability to conduct your research independently while being an active member of an international research team. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English will be needed. We will offer a meaningful, original and ambitious scientific project in an international, top-level research environment. From the applicant we expect high motivation to conduct demanding experimental work, as well as a curiosity driven science-enthusiastic mindset. Salary and benefits The salary will be in accordance with the University salary system (requirement level 5). In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal performance. The starting salary will be approximately 3900