Doctoral Researcher in Membrane Separation Process

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 talented and research-oriented

Doctoral researcher in membrane separation processes

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

Our team is committed to developing innovative, energy-efficient membranes inspired by nature for blue energy harvesting. It aims to enhancing filtration efficiency, reducing fouling, extending membrane shelf life, and achieving commercial viability through high power density membrane. This project is a collaborative effort across disciplines, inviting your involvement in developing and testing new membranes, which is vital for enhancing our knowledge and innovation in this area.

• As a doctoral researcher you will carry out research work within a research team
• Publish research results in the most esteemed international fora
• Attend doctoral courses
• Complete your doctoral thesis within 3-4 years

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?

We are looking for talented and research-oriented candidates with an interest in biomimetic membrane for blue energy harvesting. We are especially looking for individuals focused on the synthesis of multi-layered bio-inspired membranes for the pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) process. 

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you: 

• Master's degree in the field of chemical engineering or related
• Fluent in written and spoken English 
• Knowledge in membrane separation processes, organic /inorganic chemistry and material science
• Understanding of biomimetics fundamentals is advantageous 
• Characterization of membrane and measurement techniques
• IT skills, communication skills etc.
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate

• Prior experience in membrane synthesis, modification, and applications
• Strong fundamental knowledge on membrane separation processes such as pressure-driven and osmotically driven membranes
• OR/AND fundamental knowledge on osmotic power
• OR/AND fundamental knowledge of developing polymeric-based membranes
• 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

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 01.09.2024 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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 2300-2900 € 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. Cover letter
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. Certificates/Diplomas
4. 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. Nora Jullok, 0000-00-00