Doctoral Researcher in the Research Unit of Sustainable Chemistry in the Faculty of Technology

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.  

We are now recruiting a highly motivated and competent

Doctoral researcher

to join us in Research unit of Sustainable Chemistry at the Faculty of Technology.

The Research Unit of Sustainable Chemistry located in the Faculty of Technology has 60 employees. The unit performs extensive chemistry research in the fields of 1) bioeconomy, and 2) inorganic circular economy. In the field of bioeconomy, the unit conducts research related to the utilization of lignocellulosic side streams as raw materials for high value-added products. The research topics include chemical modification of side streams to adsorbents and catalysts, conversion of side streams to platform chemicals as well as the preparation of biomass-based polymeric materials. Collaboration with companies is intensive.

About the job

As a doctoral researcher, you will work in international Interreg Aurora research project related to polymer chemistry, preparation of biomass-derived polyester resins, and polymer characterizations. You will be part of multidisciplinary research group. As a doctoral researcher you will apply study right from UniOGS (University of Oulu Graduate School).

What we offer?

• The employment contracts are based on a total working time of 1 612 hours per year, which gives the doctoral researchers freedom to plan their working hours.
• A wide variety of support services allowing you to focus on your studies and research.
• A competitive salary paid monthly, which includes paid leave and an additional holiday bonus in the summer.
• Wellness benefit (ePassi) covering sport, culture and well-being activities. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Development and career options of the big organisation.
• 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?

We expect from you Master’s Degree in the field of Chemistry (e.g., organic chemistry). Background related to synthetic organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, or materials chemistry is demanded. In addition, practical experience in NMR characterizations, thermal analyses, and/or mechanical testing is a benefit. In addition, we expect good written and spoken English and basic IT skills.

Salary

The position is fixed-term until the end of 2026.

The starting 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. 2600 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Applications should be submitted using the electronic application form by July 31^st, 2024 (23:59 Finnish local time). The application should be written in English and include the following enclosures:

1. Cover letter (max. 1 page) summarizing applicant’s professional experience, expertise, and career plans describing why applicant is interested in this position.
2. CV (max 2 pages) including a list of any peer-reviewed scientific publications (with full reference details). A recommended CV template can be found on the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity 
3. Certificates/Diplomas Scanned copy of the original relevant Master’s degree certificates and transcript of records and, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English.

Only applications containing all relevant appendices and submitted through the online recruitment system will be considered. Applications received after the call deadline will not be considered.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Associate professor Juha Heiskanen, juha.heiskanen@oulu.fi, +358 29 448 1591 

Please note that there may be a delay in responses due to summer holidays.