Doctoral Researcher / Project Researcher in AI-Enabled Drug Discovery
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Finland
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University of Turku
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On Campus (Full Time)
See Position Description-
PhD Research Funding
Expired
On Campus (Full Time) Position Details (PhD Program)
Professor Olli Pentikäinen is looking for a Doctoral Researcher to join the MedChem.fi Laboratory at the Institute of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku. The fixed-term position starts on 1 March 2026 (or as agreed) and is until 28 February 2028 with a possibility for an extension.
The MedChem.fi Laboratory conducts interdisciplinary research in computational medicinal chemistry, AI-enabled drug discovery, and synthesis. The laboratory collaborates closely with experimental medicinal chemistry, structural biology, in vitro and in vivo pharmacology, proteomics, and academic and industrial partners in Finland, including research groups at the University of Oulu. This environment enables integrated early-stage drug discovery from computational design to biological validation.
Project Description
The project focuses on developing artificial intelligence models to accelerate drug discovery and to enable exploration of broader chemical space. The research aims to develop physics-informed and data-driven models that remain robust and generalizable when applied to out-of-distribution data, while addressing key bottlenecks associated with resource-intensive, iterative experimental workflows.
By bridging physical principles and biological data within a closed-loop discovery platform, the project seeks to enable iterative identification, optimization, and validation of novel therapeutic candidates. The work is tightly integrated with multidisciplinary experimental and computational research groups, allowing continuous feedback between modelling, synthesis, and biological evaluation.
The project is carried out in a highly collaborative environment where AI for Science converges with experimental rigour. This synergistic setting provides a unique opportunity to develop methods that push the boundaries of current drug discovery workflows.
Job description
The doctoral research will focus on AI-enabled methods for drug discovery. The exact topic will be defined based on the selected candidate’s background and interests.
The tasks include also:
- Developing, implementing, and validating computational methods relevant to drug discovery.
- Collaborating in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Who we are looking for
The successful applicant must have:
- A higher university degree (e.g. Master’s degree) in a relevant field.
- Strong analytical and computational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
- Proficiency in Python and modern scientific computing environments.
- Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., Pytorch, JAX).
- High motivation to obtain a PhD degree.
- Good communication skills and capability of taking initiative.
- Fluency in English.
The following are considered as an advantage:
- Prior experience in related research, e.g. quantum computing.
- Experience in quantum theory, quantum-inspired modelling, or related methodological development.
The qualification requirements of the position are available on the University of Turku Rules of Procedure. In case the selected candidate does not yet have the right to study for a doctoral degree at the University of Turku, the title of Project Researcher will be used at first, and the study right for a doctoral degree should be applied in the next suitable call. For additional information, please see University of Turku Graduate School (UTUGS) and Doctoral programs and How to Apply for Doctoral Training at the Faculty of Medicine.
However, BSc-level candidates are encouraged to apply, too, if the Master’s level degree is nearly completed. A job title of a Research Assistant will be used in a such case first.
We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.
Institute of Biomedicine
Research at the Institute of Biomedicine is divided into three functional units: Infection and Immunity, Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, and Cancer research. Research at our Institute includes both biomedical basic research and translational research, and the unit division expresses our research priorities.
The Faculty of Medicine is a high level, international and innovative research and education unit in biomedicine, clinical medicine, dentistry and health and nursing sciences, as well as a major social contributor to health promotion, disease genesis, in the research of diagnostics and treatment and in the development of the health service and education system. The faculty provides research-based multidisciplinary undergraduate education in educational programs that educate diverse and critically minded specialists. The research is multidisciplinary and results in new information aimed at promoting the health of the population and better patient care.
The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.
