Doctoral Researcher in Geotechnical Materials - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for talented, innovative, and driven

Doctoral researcher

for 4 year-fully funded position to join us in the Cementitious binders and materials recycling group at the Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Unit, which is a successful and world-leading research group in the field of utilization of industrial side streams and low-CO2 cements. The multicultural research group consists of 50 people; 3 professors, 15 doctors and 24 doctoral researchers. We have an open and encouraging working atmosphere and have a substantial track record in attracting competitive funding including Horizon Europe and the Research Council of Finland programmes.

About the job

The position is part of EU Horizon Europe project  "REESOURCE: Unlocking the supply of rare earth elements in Europe through responsible, sustainable and Decarbonised innovative technologies". The project is focused on enhancing key technologies of raise mining to foster “invisible mining”, with minimal socioenvironmental impact and lower CO2 emissions.

Your research will focus on developing a cementitious binder system from mine tailings, making them suitable for backfilling, and other applications in mine sites and avoiding the need for tailing ponds;  valorize the tailings through a Circular Economy approach, to make them suitable for expanded value chains as geopolymers (or other binder systems) for construction applications.

Your task will be to carry out multidisciplinary research with state-of-the-art analytical techniques, including laboratory work, inorganic material analyses, and the development of novel binder materials using tailings for utilization in mines onsite applications.

You will carry out research work within a research team, be responsible for project-related activities and publish research results in leading international scientific journals.

What we expect

• We are looking for a team player with solid research skills
• You must have a Master's degree in geotechnical engineering (specialization in materials), materials science, materials engineering, chemistry, or in a closely related field. Please note that your degree should be obtained within the last 5 years, by the start of the employment.
• We expect you to have knowledge in laboratory and material synthesis and analytical technique(s)
• Experience in cement chemistry, and characterization techniques specific to materials for mine sites, is an advantage.
• Excellent level of English as working language in spoken and written

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. 
• 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.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years starting 01.03.2024 or as agreed

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 six-month trial period will be applied to the position.

How to apply?

Please apply by 10.02.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. Detailed CV
2. Motivation letter (1 page)
3. Letter(s) of recommendation or contact person(s) who can give references.
4. Academic certificates and transcripts
5. List of publications (optional)
6. English language certificates (optional). However, your English proficiency will be assessed during interview.

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,

Senior Researcher Priyadharshini Perumal, priyadharshini.perumal@oulu.fi.