We are building the future with science! The University of Oulu is one of the biggest universities in Finland with various fields of science. We participate solving global challenges by combining interdisciplinary approaches, high-level research and successful collaboration. Many of our research units represent international top-level research in their fields. Together with Oulu university of applied sciences we form the academic centre of Oulu. More information https://www.oulu.fi/university/

Do you want to save the humanity from the climate crisis? Do you dare to take on the challenge of turning CO₂ from emission into a raw material? We have an exciting post for you.

We are looking for curious, talented, and motivated

Doctoral student for a 4-year position.

Your research will concentrate on developing building materials (e.g., plaster and brick) by utilizing CO₂ via Mg-based binders. Your task will be to carry out multidisciplinary research with state-of-the art methods, including both experimental work (chemistry and process optimization) and thermodynamic modelling. The work will look into reaction kinetics and mechanism, mechanical performance, and durability assessment of the new building materials.

If you’re wondering why you should work on this topic. Here you go: the conventional Portland cement is one of the biggest industrial polluters and responsible for 8% of all anthropogenic CO₂ emissions. Our project aims to decarbonize the cement and flip the script by utilizing Mg-carbonate chemistry. The win-win potential is vast: Mg-carbonates could be used to capture all the carbon for the foreseeable future. You will carry out research work within a highly motivated research team, publish research results in leading international scientific journals, take part in funding acquisition, and contribute to teaching and supervision. And more importantly, while you may have to work hard at times, you can rest assured that you are working to save humanity from crisis. You will work on research in university’s strategic research profile area called Inorganic Side Streams (InStreams).

About us

Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Unit (http://www.oulu.fi/pyokuien/) carries out research in the field of advanced inorganic materials in circular economy. The multicultural research group consists of 50 people; 3 professors, 15 doctors and 24 doctoral students. We have an open and encouraging working atmosphere and have a substantial track record in attracting competitive funding including Horizon 2020 EU and the Academy of Finland programmes.

What we expect

• We are looking for a team player with “sisu” and a can-do attitude. Expertise and experience in cements, chemistry, materials processing are beneficial.
• You must have a Master’s degree in the field of natural sciences or engineering such as chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, physical chemistry or in a closely related field.
• We expect you to have some fundamental skills in laboratory and material analysis techniques (e.g., XRD, TGA, SEM, Raman as well as mechanical testing). Experience with building material processing and thermodynamic modelling is a plus.
• You should have good communication skills in both written and spoken English.

Experience in scientific publications, thesis supervision, activity in the scientific community and practical familiarity with the field in question are seen as advantage.

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
• In addition to modern research facilities, we offer you personnel benefits such as occupational healthcare and sports- and culture benefits.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years, starting 1.4.2022 or as agreed. The salary of the selected doctoral student will be in accordance with the Finnish universities salary system for teaching and research personnel: level 2-4. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (maximum of 50% of the job-specific component). The typical starting salary for a doctoral student is approx. 2300-2500 euros/month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months will be included.

How to apply

Applications, together with all relevant enclosures, should be submitted using electronic application form by March 1st, 2022 at 23:59 (Finnish local time). The application should be written in English and include the following:

1) A motivation letter (max. 1 page) summarizing applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why applicant is interested in about this position. Also, information on personal research interests, experience, and career plans are valuable to provide here

2) Curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages) including possible list of publications

3) Certificates/Diplomas and transcript: Scanned copy of the original M.Sc. degree certificate and transcript of records and, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English

4) Contact information of two senior/experienced researchers who may be asked to give a statement on the candidate

Top candidates will be invited to an on-site or remote interview.

Further information 

Associate professor (tenure track) Päivö Kinnunen

email: paivo.kinnunen(at)oulu.fi

tel.: +358294488020

Dr. Hoang Nguyen

email: hoang.nguyen(at)oulu.fi

tel: +358294482435

City of Oulu

The Oulu region is home to over 200 000 people making it the largest urban centre in northern Scandinavia and one of the fastest growing regions in Finland. Oulu is a combination of beautiful, northern nature, vivid cultural life and modern technology. Oulu is also known for its highly-educated people and friendly, easy-going atmosphere. Find out more about Oulu: here.