Postdoctoral Researcher

We are seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our multidisciplinary team at the Turku PET Centre in the following role: Develop 89Zr-labelled PET tracers for investigation of biophysical processes in crops using PET imaging.

The position is a fixed term for one year, starting on 1 August 2025.

About the Project
The RE-IMAGINE-CROPS project is an ambitious EU-funded initiative addressing sustainable agriculture challenges through cutting-edge imaging technologies. This project aims to revolutionize nitrogen (N)-fertilizer application by developing the first real-time, in-field, portable, multimodal, multiscale Positron Emission Tomography - Multiphoton Endoscope (PET-ME) technology. The novel approach combines metabolic and cellular-level imaging, enabling precise tailoring of N-fertilizer use to optimize crop health and minimize ecological and economic losses.

Key goals of the project include:

• Real-time PET reconstruction for metabolic imaging at a micrometer scale.
• Advanced hydrodynamic modeling for fertilizer dispersion.
• Development of optical fiber-based multiphoton endoscopic systems for cellular imaging.
• Integration of tracer systems using innovative protein labeling technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with consortium partners to develop and implement imaging technologies.
• Design, radiosynthesis and optimization of new PET tracers for plant imaging.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Ph.D.) in radiochemistry, chemistry, radiopharmaceutical chemistry or medicinal chemistry.
• Expertise in PET radiochemistry.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent communication skills in English (both written and spoken).
• Experience in scientific publishing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in working with open radioactive sources.
• Previous experience in radiometal chemistry is an advantage.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on a groundbreaking project with leading scientists and institutions.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies.
• Competitive salary that will commensurate with the experience of the candidate. Occupational healthcare is included.
• A dynamic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research environment.

Salary and trial period

Salary is determined in accordance with levels OV05-OV06, the Finnish Universities Salary System for Research and Teaching Personnel. The salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience based on the University salary system. The task-specific salary is 3 213,55-3 747,44 EUR per month. In addition to task-specific salary, personal performance based salary is paid.

A trial period of six (6) months is applied.

How to apply
Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 29 April 2025 at 16.00.
Applicants should enclose with their application:

1. A detailed CV.
2. A cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in the project.
3. Contact information for [2-3] professional references.

Further information

For inquiries, contact: Prof. Anu Airaksinen, Turku PET Centre, [email protected]

For further information on the recruitment process, please contact HR Specialist Mirjami Jaakkola, [email protected]