Technical assistant

The Polymer Chemistry and Materials Research Group at the University of Helsinki is seeking a talented and highly motivated Technical Assistant in Polymer Chemistry for a fixed time contract of 4 months. About the position This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of polymer chemistry, additive manufacturing, optoelectronics and biomedicine. You will contribute to the development of innovative light-emitting polymeric materials, with direct relevance to improving sustainability and widening applications. Key Responsibilities * Design and Synthesis of novel light-emitting polymers by various controlled polymerization techniques * Characterization and analysis of the photophysical properties of the obtained polymeric materials * Timely communication with the supervisor and regular report of the experimental results Candidate Requirements * A Masters degree in relevant field e.g. in Polymer Chemistry * Strong expertise in controlled polymerization techniques, especially Suzuki-Miyaura polycondensation and catalyst-transfer polymerization, ATRP, ROMP, and direct C-H amidation polymerization * Proficient in multi-step organic synthesis, including purification using column chromatography. Skilled in handling air- and moisture-sensitive reactions using Schlenk line and glovebox techniques. * Proficiency in using NMR (1H, 13C, 2D), GPC, FTIR, MALDI-TOF, DSC, TGA for polymer characterization * Proficiency in using UV-Vis, steady-state and time-resolved PL, QY spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry for photophysical characterization * Hands-on experience with high-resolution imaging using TEM, SEM and AFM for nanoscale morphology analysis * Familiar with mechanical and physical processing techniques such as ball-mill grinding and ultra-sonication for depolymerization * Strong communication skills and the ability to explain experimental details What We Offer * A collaborative and interdisciplinary environment where chemists, biologists, and engineers work side by side. * Opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and creative ownership in shaping polymer design for cutting-edge material research. * The chance to make a meaningful impact by contributing to projects with real-world relevance for optoelectronics and biomedicine. * Access to state-of-the-art characterization infrastructure and cutting-edge experimental technologies. The salary will be based on the University salary scheme and will be ca. 2100 2300 euros/month, depending on the appointees qualifications and experience. The employment is a fixed term position for 4 months from September 1st to December 31st 2025. The further extension to PhD study is possible. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care, insurance for work-related travel and occupational accidents, a generous holiday package, sports services at a reduced price and opportunities for professional development:https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers. How to apply: Please submit your application, which includes the following PDF-documents in English: CV & cover letter, through our recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 9 July 2025. We are screening the applications as they come, so we might contact you already during the application period. The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of any gender and age, linguistic or cultural background, or minority group. We cannot give feedback to the applications. For more information, contact Prof. Yinyin Bao, email yinyin.bao(at)helsinki.fi .