Faculty of Science, Nano and Molecular Systems

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.  

We are now looking for a highly motivated and competent

Doctoral Researcher

for Synergistic Surface Nanocrystallization and oxidation treatment for Hydrogen Embrittlement resistant steels to join us in Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit (NANOMO) at the Faculty of Science.

The research unit consists of a multidisciplinary team of physicists and chemists working on experimental, theoretical and computational research on various materials. The research spans a wide field of topics at the intersection of physics and chemistry. Working language of the research unit is English.

About the job  

The position is part of the research project Synergistic Surface Nanocrystallization and oxidation treatment for Hydrogen Embrittlement resistant steels funded by the Research Council of Finland and involves aspects of physical metallurgy, materials science and surface engineering.

As a doctoral researcher you will be part of a multidisciplinary research group and

  • Design different surface engineering protocols utilizing surface nanocrystallization and oxidation techniques
  • Carry out characterizations using different microscopic and spectroscopic techniques and related data analysis
  • Investigate the hydrogen embrittlement resistance of treated steels
  • Write and publish results in leading international scientific journals
  • Obtain course credits in according to the doctoral degree training plan, and complete the doctoral degree by the due time.

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 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?

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

  • A master’s degree in materials science, physical metallurgy, or an equivalent field. (applications are also accepted from applicant who have not yet finished their master’s degree but who are close to completion and can set a definite date for graduation)
  • The degree must be completed with good grades
  • Knowledge in one of the following topics: material characterizations, crystallography, physical metallurgy, hydrogen embrittlement, electrochemistry measurements
  • Fluent in written and spoken English to follow doctoral studies
  • Good communication skills and the ability to work as a part of team and independently
  • See also the requirements of University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate experience in any of the following that is beneficial but not mandatory:

  • Experience in using different microscopies and associated data analysis
  • Programming skills
  • Ability to work in the interdisciplinary of physics and chemistry

Salary

Doctoral research selected for the position will by default be offered a 4-year (48 month) fixed-term full-time employment contract by the University of Oulu. The selected applicant is expected to start the project before 1.10.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

The salary of the selected doctoral researcher will be paid monthly. 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. 2600 € per month (before taxes). Later the salary follows the YPJ salary system of Finnish Universities.

The employment contracts are based on a total working time of 1 612 hours per year, which gives the doctoral researchers freedom to plan their working hours.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 29.09.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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, describing applicant’s research interests and motivation related to the research project.
  2. Curriculum vitae (max. 3 pages). A recommended CV template can be found on the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity
  3. Diplomas/certificate – scanned copy of the original relevant master’s degree certificates and transcript of records if available, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English
  4. A valid certificate of language proficiency if available, can also be verified in an interview.
  5. Contact information of two people available for recommendation.

Only applications containing all relevant appendices and submitted through portal will be considered.

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 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

Shubo Wang (shubo.wang@oulu.fi)

Samuli Urpelainen (samuli.urpelainen@oulu.fi)

Type of employment Temporary position over 6 months
Contract type Full time
Number of positions 1
Full-time equivalent 100 %
City Oulu
County Pohjois-Pohjanmaa
Country Finland
Reference number 2024/388
Published 20.Aug.2024
Last application date 29.Sep.2024

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