Two Doctoral Researchers in emission free pulping, Fibre and Particle Engineering - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for two

Doctoral Researchers

to join us in Fiber and Particle Engineering research unit (appr. 75 persons) at the Faculty of Technology of the University of Oulu. The unit focuses on sustainable materials, chemicals and applications based on lignocelluloses and inorganic binding materials. The group is developing novel delignification methods, nano- and microcelluloses, their hybrid structures with inorganics/biomaterials and their applications such as barriers and films, filters and membranes, nanopapers, smart materials, biomedical and electronic applications. The team has all relevant processing equipment, analytics, and trained laboratory staff related to biomass processing topics. 

About the job

Two doctoral researcher positions in emission free pulping available at the Fiber and Particle Engineering Research Unit, University of Oulu, Finland, under a project funded by Business Finland.

Anticipated starting date: February-March 2024.

Project background:

The target of the Emission Free Pulping (EFP) project is to challenge chemistry and unit operations used in pulping processes to maximize product yield (i.e., fibre, lignin, and other wood components) while avoiding emissions (especially CO2). Feedstock will be wood-based biomass, the use of which should follow a cascading principle of raw material value.

The specific objectives for the Emission Free Pulping project are:

• Maximize product yield to avoid emissions (especially CO2)
• Fibre qualities suitable for high volume applications
• Efficient utilization of side-streams, preferably for uses other than energy
• Sustainable energy efficiency and mill self-sufficiency to be considered

Two doctoral researcher position topics are:

1. Supramolecular interaction-driven fraction process of lignocellulose

In this work, novel lignocellulose delignification process will be studied based on previous study (https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03857B). The aim is to deepen the understanding of the chemistry behind the delignification and to investigate the effect of reaction parameters on the delignification process.

2. Role of lignin in high-yield fibre property formation

This work aims to clarify the role of lignin in high-yield fibre property formation with the focus on Nordic softwood raw material, understanding lignin structure-function properties, new sustainable chemistry based delignification and new pre-treatments to speed up delignification.

The project will be conducted in collaboration with other research institutes and companies in Finland. The project is connected to the Emission Free Pulping-program established between research institutes and companies in Finland and Sweden, and strong international collaboration will be conducted during the project.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of 20 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 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?

We are looking for a person with a MSc degree (granted no later than appointment date) in organic or applied chemistry, chemical or process engineering, or material science or related fields. Especially, in the topic one, the background related to biomass processing, pulping, and NMR is a benefit, whereas in topic two, the background in (wood) fibers and their chemistry is benefit.

You are able to work as a part of a larger, multidisciplinary group, and you have the ability to take your own initiatives and you are able to collaborate with in industrial and research partners. Good communication skills in English both in speech and writing is important.

Salary

The positions are fixed-term for 3 years as of February-March 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The 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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 2300-2600 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply 31.1.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1) Motivation letter (1 to 2 pages) describing your specific interest with clear description which one of the two topic is your main interest, motivation and qualifications for the project

2) Curriculum vitae according to the guidelines of the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity 

3) Copies of Bachelor and Master certificates/diploma, or anticipated date of degree

4) A full list of scientific publications on which the applicant wishes to rely (if available)

5) Letters of recommendation

6) English language certificate, if available

Incomplete applications will neither be considered nor evaluated. We may use shortlisting in this process. Data collected from candidates will be used for recruitment purposes only and will not be shared outside of the University of Oulu unless authorized by the applicant

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

For further information about this position or University of Oulu, please contact Dr. Juho Sirviö (juho.sirvio@oulu.fi).