Postdoctoral Researcher, Space Physics and Astronomy

We are now looking for

a Postdoctoral Researcher

to join us in the Ionospheric Physics research group within the Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit at University of Oulu, Finland, in the field of Space Physics. The Ionospheric Physics research group studies the effects of space weather on the ionosphere-thermosphere system. We utilize a comprehensive set of measurements from ground-based instruments and satellites in our research. One of the most important instruments in our research is the current EISCAT radar facility and the forthcoming new EISCAT3D radar. The research group consists of one professor, three senior researchers, three postdoctoral researchers and several doctoral researchers, and has a wide international network of collaborators.

About the job

You will work as a postdoctoral researcher in the project "Ion-neutral interactions in arctic upper atmosphere observed with EISCAT3D (IONTRACE)". The project studies the effects of Joule heating and particle precipitation on the ionosphere-thermosphere system. Your responsibilities will include the development of incoherent scatter radar data analysis tools and studies of the polar ionosphere-thermosphere system using cutting edge measurements with the EISCAT3D incoherent scatter radar and other ground-based and satellite instruments. The results of the project will help to predict and mitigate the effects of space weather on our society and its technological systems. 

What we offer?

• You will become a part of an international research group with wide collaboration networks and an open and encouraging working atmosphere.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you:

• Doctoral degree in space physics or a closely related field. The degree must be obtained no more than 10 years before the last application date. 
• Ability for independent scientific work, as demonstrated by your publication record. 
• Good programming skills.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

We also appreciate:

• Experience in experimental and/or modeling studies of the ionosphere-thermosphere system.
• Familiarity with incoherent scatter radars and analysis of incoherent scatter radar data.
• Familiarity with auroral electrodynamics.

Salary

The position is fixed-term until 31 August 2029, starting  01 September 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on level 5 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3800 € per month (before taxes).

A trial period of 6 months is applied for the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 03 August 2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. Complete CV. We recommend to follow the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
2. Cover letter explaining your motivation for the position, prior knowledge, research interests and career plans (1-2 pages).
3. List of publications. We recommend to follow the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland.
4. Certificates/Diplomas. Scanned electronic copies of diploma and transcript of records of the PhD degree and other relevant degrees. If the original documents are not in English, Finnish, or Swedish, each document must be accompanied by an official certified translation into English or Finnish. 
5. Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation.

Applications sent by email will not be considered. The usage of AI systems in writing the application is not forbidden but will be considered as a negative point. The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to a remote interview. All applicants will be notified when the selection process is completed.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders, and members of different languages, cultural or minority groups.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact

Dr. Ilkka Virtanen
Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit
ilkka.i.virtanen@oulu.fi