Postdoctoral Researcher in NMR Spin Hyperpolarization and Metal-Free Catalysis

We are now looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher (2 years)

at the NMR Research Unit, Faculty of Science, University of Oulu.

About the job

The position is part of the Research Council of Finland research project ”Enhancing NMR Sensitivity Through Metal-Free Catalysis“ led by Associate Professor Vladimir Zhivonitko and involves aspects of experimental NMR spectroscopy, nuclear spin hyperpolarization using parahydrogen, molecular modelling, and catalysis using metal-free compounds. As a doctoral researcher, you will be part of a multidisciplinary research group and work on studying, designing, and applying new types of metal-free catalysts for parahydrogen-induced polarization (PHIP) and signal amplification by reversible exchange (SABRE) utilizing experimental and theoretical methods. The specific focus of the project will depend on the specific research interests of the doctoral researcher. We are open to all candidates who have strong background, experience, and enthusiasm in working at the intersection of chemistry, spectroscopy, and physics.

The position is located at the NMR Research Unit within the Faculty of Science and the degree program in physics. The research unit consists of a multidisciplinary team of physicists and chemists working on experimental, theoretical and computational research on magnetic resonance as well as molecular magnetism. The research spans a wide field of topics at the intersection of chemistry and physics. The unit currently employs 24 people of whom about half have come from outside of Finland. The working language of the research unit is English.

What we offer?

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

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

• Completed doctoral degree in chemistry, materials science, physics or a related field, and show a visible scientific profile (applications are also accepted from candidates who have not yet finished their PhD’s degree but who are close to completion and can set a definite date for graduation)
• Demonstrated potential in acquiring supplementary (extramural) funding, and teaching experience (will be taken as a merit when choosing the scientist)
• Other qualification experiences such as scientific publications, thesis supervision, activity in the scientific community, practical familiarity with the field in question, scientific work abroad, and other international activities (as part of the NMR Research Unit, the duties include supervising the scientific research of BSc, MSc and doctoral students, and acquiring research funding)
• Knowledge in one of the following topics: NMR spectroscopy, organic and organometallic chemistry, catalysis, or computational chemistry
• Fluent written and spoken English
• You are highly motivated, possess good communication, teamwork and organizational skills, as well as can carry out independent work
• Participation in teaching within the physics curriculum

Experience in any of the following is beneficial but not mandatory:

• Experience in experiments and the theory of NMR spectroscopy
• Understanding of organic and organometallic chemistry
• Synthetic chemistry skills
• Experience in using quantum-chemical software
• Ability to work at the intersection of chemistry and physics

Position and Salary

A postdoctoral researcher selected for the position will by default be offered a two-year (24-month) fixed-term full-time employment contract by the University of Oulu. The selected applicants are expected to start their project between 1^st of November 2024 and 1^st of February 2025. A six-month trial period is applied in the position. 

The salary will be based on the levels 5-6 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). The salary is thus in practice roughly 3700 – 4300 € per month (before taxes), depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience. Later the salary follows the YPJ salary system of Finnish universities. The salary will be paid monthly.

The employment contract is based on a total working time of 1 612 hours per year, which gives the postdoctoral researcher freedom to plan the working hours. A six-month trial period will be effective at the beginning of the work contract.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 30^th of September 2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system. Only applications submitted via the recruitment system within the application period will be considered.

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

1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing the applicant’s professional experience and expertise, and describing applicant’s research interests and motivation related to the research project. Also, information on other personal research interests, experience and career plans are valuable to provide here. The letter should also include potential specific interests in the research at the University of Oulu.
2. Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages).
3. Certificates/diplomas – scanned copy of the original relevant master’s degree and doctoral degree certificates as well as transcript of records and, when necessary, official translations to English.
4. List of publications in international peer-reviewed journals.
5. Brief (1-2 pages) description of research merits.
6. 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 online interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from different 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 Associate Professor Vladimir Zhivonitko, Vladimir.

vladimir.zhivonitko@oulu.fi

Please note that there may be a delay in responses due to summer holidays or conference trips.