Doctoral Researcher in the field of Hydrogen Embrittlement - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Materials and Mechanical Engineering (MME) includes five separate fields of research study: Microstructure and Mechanics (Materials Engineering), Performance of Steels (Materials Engineering), Failure Mechanisms (Materials Engineering), Modelling (Materials Engineering), and Machine and Vehicle Design. We are aiming to be a world-leading research unit in the field of physical metallurgy of high-strength steels, with a focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of modern machines, vehicles, and structures. We strive to provide innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges, and to contribute to the development of modern structure and mobile machinery that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions.

We are now looking for

Doctoral Researcher

to join the Failure Mechanisms team in the MME research unit at the Faculty of Technology in building the knowledge base required for metallic material innovations for the hydrogen economy. To realise this, material issues linked to hydrogen need to be understood. Both microstructural interactions between hydrogen and the material, and the consequent degradation of the mechanical properties, i.e., hydrogen embrittlement (HE), will be investigated experimentally in detail to elucidate the governing phenomena, and to support a larger research framework focusing on hydrogen-tolerant materials and environmentally sustainable solutions for transportation and infrastructure. The research is expected to focus on a fundamental understanding of HE in novel steels, with and without hydrogen-barrier surface coatings, and testing and characterisation of hydrogen-steel interactions.

For a position as a doctoral researcher, the goal is a completed doctoral education up to an obtained doctoral degree. The successful candidate will carry out their research in the above-described areas of materials research.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of X people where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits. 
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close-ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have a HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Finland is one of the most liveable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

The position is for persons who have recently finished their master’s degree, and are advancing towards a professional research career.

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

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Materials Science and Engineering, Civil Engineering, Material Physics). Students near completion can also apply. The degree must be completed prior to the beginning of the employment.
• Familiarity with one or more of the following: metallic materials, steels and their microstructures, hydrogen embrittlement, mechanical testing, and electrochemical testing – preferably with demonstrated experience
• Familiarity with microstructural deformation and fracture behaviour of steels is regarded as beneficial.
• Research publications related to the topic
• Good English skills (writing, speaking).
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 01.02.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The starting salary will be based on the levels 2-4 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). Starting gross salary will be approx.  2400 - 2700 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 14.01.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter (max. 2 pages) summarising the applicant’s professional experience and expertise, and describing why the applicant is interested in about this position. Also, information on personal research interests, experience, and career plans is valuable to provide here.
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
   Include relevant grade point averages (GPA)
3. Certificates/Diplomas, documentation of a completed master’s degree must be presented before taking up the position. 
4. A copy of the master’s thesis. If you have recently submitted your thesis, a draft can be provided. 
5. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation.

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

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

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Senior Research Scientist Sakari Pallaspuro, sakari.pallaspuro@oulu.fi, +358 294 487 481, or Head of department, Professor Jukka Kömi, jukka.komi@oulu.fi.

Text edited 18.12.2023 Salary corrected to  2400 - 2700 € per month.