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 for

a 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 related to Characterization of Microstructural Evolution during Thermal/Thermomechanical Treatment of Steels using Advanced Techniques, and Physical and Numerical Simulation.

The doctoral researcher will join the Materials and Mechanical Engineering (MME) research unit to work mainly on experimentation, and characterization of steel microstructures after thermomechanical processes. Also, the research will involve some use of numerical simulation tools (heat transfer, conduction, and phase transformations). The present work is connected to the EU funded project, AI Powered Characterization and Modelling for Green Steel Technology (AID4GREENEST). In addition, it is important that the doctoral researcher takes care of handling the obtained data in appropriate format so that it can be used by other research partners during and after the project. This will enable the use of AI tools, developed by the research partners, for predicting microstructure evolution. The fast models can then be applied for predicting the steel microstructure after processing.

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.
• 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. You will carry out your 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, Physical Metallurgy). Students nearing completion can also apply. The degree must be completed prior to the beginning of the employment.
• Familiarity and experience with the following: Thermomechanical experiments, electron microscopy, microstructural characterization, numerical modelling, heat transfer, phase transformations, etc.
• Familiarity with microstructural evolution and characterization in metals, particularly steels, using advanced techniques 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 position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 1.11.2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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 24.09.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system. The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. Cover letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing 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.
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
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

Professor Mahesh Somani, mahesh.somani@oulu.fi, tel. +358 40 564 1571

Doctor Aarne Pohjonen, aarne.pohjonen@oulu.fi, tel. +358 50 597 4261

or Head of Unit Professor Jukka Kömi, jukka.komi@oulu.fi , tel 358 40 549 0311

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