Postdoctoral Researcher in Membrane Separation Processes

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

Postdoctoral researcher

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 Postdoctoral Researcher, you will carry out research work within and co-leading a small research team, assist Principal Investigator with writing research proposals, and publish research results in the most esteemed international fora. You are expected with the knowledge of:

• Chemical engineering, membrane separation technology, process control and design, organic /inorganic chemistry and materials science
• Synthetic membrane synthesis, modifications, and applications are highly valued
• Understanding of biomimetics fundamentals is advantageous
• Characterization of membranes and measurement
• Sustainability assessment

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 Postdoctoral Researcher is expected to possess:

• A PhD / doctoral degree in chemical engineering, polymer engineering/chemistry, Science/Engineering (or other applicable equivalent 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

Applicants nearing completion of their doctoral degree (less than six months from the official graduation date) can also be considered.

In addition, we appreciate:

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

We also appreciate

• Finnish language skills
• 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 12 months as of 01.09.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 5-6 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). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3500 - 4000 € per month (before taxes).  A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 30.09.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. CV
2. Cover letter
3. List of publications
4. (Scanned) copy of your degrees / certificates
5. Official English translation of your doctoral certificate (if not in English / Finnish)
6. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation
7. Teaching portfolio

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 different backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders and members of different language, 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. Nora Jullok, +358504686891
2. Esa Ilmari Muurinen,