PhD position on antivirality of wood

The Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, Department of Chemistry are now inviting applications for the post of Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) in Antiviral Activity of Woody Materials and Their Coatings in Built Environment) in the Marie-Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Training Network DESTINY. The position is expected to begin on 1 September 2024, or on 1 December 2024 at the latest.

They are seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic and talented Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) to join our Sustainable Technologies research group in the Department of Chemistry at the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology. The position is located on the Joensuu campus, Finland.

Prior research has strongly indicated that specific chemical groups have synergetic ability to provide wood characteristics that can be considered antiviral. This means that virus droplets landing on wooden surfaces lose their infectivity very quickly. Understanding this chemical and structural synergy in wood allows the development of innovative materials that are inspired by natural defenses against viruses. This research aims to explore and test the hypothesis that the integration of a specific blend of natural compounds on surfaces or material formulations can enhance their broad-spectrum antiviral efficacy.

The Doctoral Researcher will conduct research at the University of Eastern Finland (Joensuu campus, Finland) and will have the opportunity to make a research visit to the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) (Vienna, Austria) as part of the research project to improve our understanding on bioinspired antiviral surfaces.

• Skills

-An MSc degree in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, or related field in science or engineering.
-A good command of the English language (IELTS grade min. 6.5, or equivalent).
-Should not hold a doctoral degree.
-Applicants for the PhD position should be in the first 4 years (full-time equivalent) of their research career. This 4-year period is measured from the date of obtaining your MSc degree (or equivalent).
-Prior experience in microbiological or related laboratory work and characterization methods of solid materials are considered an advantage.

• Application

Submit your application by using our electronic application form no later than 11 March 2024 by 24:00 (midnight) Finnish time (UTC+2).

Please note that you must include the following appendices in your application:
-A CV (https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae)
-Copies of your academic degree certificates / diplomas, and copies of certificates / diplomas relating to your language proficiency, if not indicated in the academic degree certificates/diplomas
-A transcript of records
-A Motivation letter (max. 1 page)
-Other documents to demonstrate the applicant’s merits for the position

• Contact

For further information on the position, please contact Professor Antti Haapala by email, antti.haapala@uef.fi.