Doctoral Researcher in Steel Research, Faculty of Technology, Materials and Mechanical Engineering, Centre for Advanced Steels Research

Faculty of Technology, Materials and Mechanical Engineering

The University of Oulu is one of the biggest and most multidisciplinary universities in Finland. We create new knowledge and innovations that help to solve global challenges. We offer you an international and inspiring working environment where you are given responsibility and can use your skills, develop yourself and do work that matters. Our flexible and family-friendly workplace makes it easy for you to balance work and leisure. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world´s universities. 

We are now looking fora Doctoral Researcher

to join us in Research unit of Materials and Mechanical Engineering at the Faculty of Technology.

Materials and Mechanical Engineering includes four separate fields of research study: Microstructure and Mechanics (Materials Engineering), Performance of Steels (Materials Engineering), Failure mechanisms (Materials Engineering), Modelling and Production Engineering and Machine and Vehicle Design. We are aiming to be as a world leading research unit in the field of physical metallurgy of high-strength steels, with a focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of modern machines, vehicles, and structures. We strive to provide innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges and to contribute to the development of modern structure and mobile machinery that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions.

About the job

The focus of the job is on experimental steels research, contributing to a research project Material and structural integrity assessment for safe Nordic hydrogen transportation infrastructure. Developing safe hydrogen (H) transport infrastructure is a mutual interest for the Nordic countries. For example, pipelines provide the most feasible option for regional and inter-regional large-scale transport and storage of pressurised H gas. However, phenomenon called H-embrittlement (HE) is a key threat to the safety of H-pipelines, caused by H ingress into steel, making the pipelines prone to brittle fracture. Low winter temperatures common in the region increase embrittlement further. Remaining scientific challenge is to understand the combined influence of low temperature and HE on the mechanical properties and fracture resistance of steels.

The research is expected to focus on fundamental understanding of HE in high-strength steels, and testing and characterisation of hydrogen-steel interactions. More specifically, microstructural characterisation, fracture toughness testing, and identification of the weakest links and failure mechanisms are of especial interest.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic teams of Materials and Mechanical Engineering 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?

For a position as a doctoral researcher, the goal is a completed doctoral education up to an obtained doctoral degree. The successful candidate will carry out their research in the above-described areas of materials research. The position is for persons who have recently finished their master’s degree and are advancing towards a professional research career. The selection criteria are the following:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Materials Science and Engineering). Students near completion can also apply. The degree must be completed prior to the beginning of the employment.
• Familiarity with one or more of the following: hydrogen embrittlement, fracture mechanical testing, mechanical testing, electrochemical testing – preferably with demonstrated experience.
• Familiarity with microstructural deformation and fracture behaviour of steels is a big plus.
• Research publications related to the topic.
• Good English skills (writing, speaking).
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

Salary

The successful candidate will be employed at the University of Oulu. The salary will be based on levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for university-level 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 starting gross salary will be approximate €2400 – 2700 per month, depending on the qualifications. A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 17.09.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system. The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV) following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
2. Cover letter (max. 2 pages) summarising the applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why the applicant is interested in about this position. Also, information on personal research interests, experience, and career plans is valuable to provide here.
3. Certificates/Diplomas for bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Documentation of a completed master’s degree must be presented before taking up the position.
4. A copy of the master’s thesis. If you have recently submitted your thesis, a draft can be provided.
5. Contact information of two senior/experienced researchers available for recommendation.

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

If you have any further questions, please contact Senior Research Scientist Sakari Pallaspuro, sakari.pallaspuro@oulu.fi, or Head of department, Professor Jukka Kömi, jukka.komi@oulu.fi

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