Doctoral Researcher in Membrane Process Design

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 looking for a

Doctoral researcher in membrane process design

to join us in the Environmental and Chemical Engineering (ECE) Research unit at the Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu.

ECE research group provides new scientific knowledge for development and design of environmentally benign and sustainable materials, unit operations and production process. Core competence areas are catalysis, separation processes, modelling, and design of sustainable unit operations and processes.

About the job

As a doctoral Researcher, you will carry out research work within and co-leading a small research team in the field of process control and design for membrane-based processes for blue energy harvesting, publish research results in the most esteemed international fora, attend doctoral courses and complete their doctoral thesis within 3–4 years. We are especially looking for individuals focused on the process design, modelling and simulation of membrane-based osmotic process.

Candidates should possess knowledge in the following areas:

• Chemical engineering, membrane separation technology, process control and system design for osmotic power generation
• Design, modeling, simulation and process optimization
• Design of experiment (DoE)
• Sustainability assessment (e.g., Life cycle assessment (LCA) and/or multicriteria data analysis (MCDA))

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?

The potential doctoral Researcher is expected to possess:

• A master’s degree in chemical engineering, polymer engineering/chemistry, Science/Engineering (or other applicable equivalent master’s degrees) completed with very good standing and research record.
• Strong fundamental knowledge on membrane separation processes such as pressure-driven and osmotically driven membranes
• Prior experience in membrane synthesis, modification, and applications is highly valued
• OR/AND fundamental knowledge on osmotic power
• OR/AND fundamental knowledge of developing polymeric-based membranes
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

In addition, we appreciate:

• Fluent in written and spoken English
• IT skills, communication skills etc.

We also appreciate

• Finnish language skills
• Experience in process control, process design and simulation
• Familiar with sustainability assessment tools
• Strong motivation, work efficiency and critical thinking skills for research in academia
• Capability to write scientific publications based on the results achieved during doctoral studies
• Readiness for demanding challenges
• Co-operation and team working skills

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 01.01.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary of the Doctoral Researcher will be set at levels 2–4 of the national salary scale for the 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. 2300-2900 € per month (before taxes). The position will be for 48 months (4 years) in which time the candidate is expected to finish their doctoral degree. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 31.10.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

• Research interests, experience, and areas of expertise
• Computer / simulation software skills (including level)
• Motivation for doctoral studies
• Language skills
• Your availability (time frame) to start in the applied position
• Contact details of three (3) referees

Add the following appendices to your application:

1. Cover letter
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. List of publications
4. (Scanned) copy of your Certificates/Diplomas
5. Official English translation of your Master's certificate (if not in English/Finnish)
6. Contact information of two persons 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 Docent, Nora Jullok, Faculty of Technology, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Nora.Jullok@oulu.fi, tel. +358 504 6868 91.

1. Esa Muurinen,
2. Nora Jullok, +358504686891