Postdoctoral Researcher, Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry, Environmental and Chemical Engineering Research unit at the Faculty of Technology. - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher

to join us in the Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry, housed in the Environmental and Chemical Engineering Research unit at the Faculty of Technology.

About the job

Applications are invited for a full-time postdoctoral researcher to join a research project headed by Assoc. Professor Daniela Bezuidenhout in the Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Environmental and Chemical Engineering unit at the University of Oulu in the Faculty of Technology, for a maximum of 15 months starting at the earliest on 1 February 2024.  The position will be funded by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation, with funding available until 31 April 2025. 

The research is directed towards the synthesis and characterization of pincer ligand scaffolds with donor carbene moieties, and their complexation to transition metals and low-valent main group elements for the exploration of their propensity towards (catalytic) small molecule activation.

What we offer?

• You will become a part of a highly talented research group, that is working on strategically and globally significant research area.
• You will receive support from your team and supervisor, so that you can excel in your research.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• 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.
• 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.
• Finland is one of the most livable 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 successful applicant will have completed a PhD in synthetic chemistry (organometallic chemistry, molecular inorganic chemistry, main group chemistry and organic chemistry), with extensive experience in handling air- and moisture sensitive-materials using Schlenk-line and glovebox techniques.

A demonstrated capacity for ligand-oriented organic synthesis and prior experience of working with transition metal complexes or low-valent main group elements, and structural characterization via single crystal X-ray diffraction is essential.

Applicants will further benefit from experience in small molecule activation, homogeneous catalysis, EPR spectroscopy and/or electrochemistry.

The successful applicant will be fluent in written and spoken English, an excellent communicator that is capable of working effectively, both independently and as part of a team of researchers.

Key responsibilities

• Planning and execution of research in accordance with the project aims
• To take initiatives in the planning of research
• Management of some administrative tasks
• To assist in the practical supervision of PhD/Masters students and advising on laboratory techniques
• To ensure the validity and reliability of data at all times, and maintain accurate and complete records of all findings
• To undertake specific safety responsibilities – e.g., preparation of standard operation procedure documentation and reaction risk assessments
• Presentation of research results at group meetings, departmental seminars, and national/international conferences
• Preparation of draft publications for submission to peer-reviewed journals

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 15 months as of 01.02.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the 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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 3500-3900 € per month (before taxes).  

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 31.12.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
2. Cover letter
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 
4. Certificates/Diplomas
5. Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation
6. Your availability (starting time)

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position may 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, different genders and members of different language, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Daniela Bezuidenhout, Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Technology, daniela.bezuidenhout@oulu.fi