Doctoral Researcher, Intelligent Machines and Systems, Faculty of Technology

We are now looking for

Doctoral Researcher

to join us in the Intelligent Machines and Systems research unit at the Faculty of Technology.

The IMS unit conducts research on the theory and methods of control and systems engineering, as well as machine diagnostics, with applications in process, energy, and mechanical engineering. The education provided by IMS covers control theory, automation systems, modeling, and simulation tools, sensors, and computer technology, as well as methods for machine diagnostics.

The Doctoral Researcher Position research themes are aligned with the Digital Waters (DIWA) Flagship, a large-scale research ecosystem funded by the Research Council of Finland, coordinated by the University of Oulu.

About the job

Industrial process control deals with the theory and practice of monitoring, automatic control, and short-term operational optimization, applied in process engineering. The doctoral researcher position focuses on hydropower control. The research work conducted in the position links to the themes of the project “Sustainable hydropower via hybrid cluster operation and hydrological forecasts under uncertainties” (SUHO), funded by the Research  Council of Finland 2026–2029, as well as those of the Digital Waters Flagship. The researcher will also participate in other duties in education and research at the research unit and the IMS collaboration with Finnish companies.

As a doctoral researcher:

• You will formulate and implement open channel flow models and develop model reduction approaches to form control-oriented representations
• You will develop modeling and control of cascaded hydropower plants, including turbines and energy storage.
• You will convert the Nordic Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR) regulations and their implications on hydropower production and grid frequency regulation to power plant control designs.
• You will also participate in education and other research responsibilities at the research unit

What we offer

• Opportunities for collaboration within academia and industry, and active participation in workshops and conferences to build professional and scientific networks.
• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of 25 people, 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.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• We have an 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, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu!

Who are you?

To succeed and enjoy the position, we require from you: 

• Master’s degree in process engineering, specializing in automation or a related field. A Master’s degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher’s work.
• Fluent in written and spoken English and Finnish
• Good communication skills
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also highly appreciate

• Know-how of integrated energy systems
• Social skills in teaching and supervision of students
• Ability to start soon in the position.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years as of 16.3.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-3200 € per month (before taxes).  A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 22.2.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English or Finnish, and include the following:

• Cover letter
• A detailed CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. The applicants will need to show their language proficiency. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, genders, and linguistic, cultural, or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Professor Enso Ikonen, enso.ikonen@oulu.fi