Doctoral Researcher in computational materials science and modelling, density functional theory and quantum computing

The University of Oulu is one of the biggest and most multidisciplinary universities in Finland. We create new knowledge and innovations that help to solve global challenges. We offer you an international and inspiring working environment where you are given responsibility and can use your skills, develop yourself and do work that matters. Our flexible and family-friendly workplace makes it easy for you to balance work and leisure. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world´s universities.

We are now looking for a

Doctoral researcher in computational materials science and modelling, density functional theory and quantum computing 

to join us in “Hydrogen Future as Climate Change Solution (H2FUTURE)” programme at the University of Oulu, Finland.

About the profilation 

Hydrogen future as a climate solution (H2FUTURE) combines the University of Oulu’s research strengths in future H2 production, sustainable metals reduction processes, and hydrogen resistant steel development to a unique, holistic, multidisciplinary research community with ambition in enabling green and sustainable hydrogen transition. H2FUTURE is leveraging research excellence in future energy formation and its applications to mitigate the energy and environmental crisis.

H2FUTURE stands on fundamental research on physics, chemistry, process metallurgy, physical metallurgy and mechanical engineering related to H2FUTURE thematics. Thematics cover but are not limited to energy efficient and climate neutral hydrogen productions, fossil-free metals production and development of steels for hydrogen transition. H2FUTURE forms a part of our national profiling actions supported by the Research Council of Finland and actively interacts with other profile areas of InStreams, Genome of Steel and HiDyn within University of Oulu’s research focuses. By recruiting talented researchers from natural sciences and engineering, H2FUTURE is accumulating knowledge to bolster scientific profiles and moreover creating new research expertise to develop the profile at the University of Oulu.

About the position

One part of the profilation theme is to develop next-generation computational tools and methods under the concept ‘Towards quantum computing use-cases in material sciences and modelling’. Increasingly more quantum computing resources have been built nationally and internationally.  Also quantum algorithms, programming languages and software kits are rapidly developing. 

Here we build a practical research cycle which first takes promising quantum computing use-cases within the H2FUTURE theme, e.g. in molecular & atomistic modelling, photocatalysis, process optimization or phase transitions in materials, then applies suitable classical and quantum methods and tools to them, and finally implements them on classical supercomputers and online quantum computers and benchmarks the results. 

Our approach is multidisciplinary needing expertise on the use-case topics, classical state-of-the-art computational methods as well as on quantum computing and hardware. The research group has strong existing background in quantum hardware, open quantum system dynamics and quantum computing. Now we are seeking a doctoral researcher that has background on computational materials science and modelling. Knowledge on applied quantum computing or practical use of quantum computers is a plus but not required. 

The recruited researchers, together with other researchers in the group and the profilation theme, will form a multidisciplinary team on applied quantum computing for H2FUTURE themes. The research site is Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit. In addition to research work, the researchers contribute to teaching (max 5 % of the total yearly working hours) and supervision, may participate in administrative tasks of the research unit. 

Requirements for the position 

• A master’s degree in a relevant field, e.g., in physics, material science, chemistry, applied mathematics or similar.
• A transdisciplinary research orientation with demonstrated research experience or interest.
• Capacity to collaborate in research and research dissemination activities.
• Good written and interpersonal communication skills in English

Assessment criteria and other qualifications
The candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications, suitability for the research topics, and potential as researchers. The merits in the following areas are seen as a strong advantage (not all required):

• Experience in classical computational ab initio methods and tools in materials physics or chemistry, preferably density functional theory. 
• Experience in scientific and numerical programming.
• Experience in H2FUTURE related use-case topics, e.g phase transitions, industrial process optimization.
• Experience in quantum computing & information or usage of online quantum computers.
• Capability to write scientific publications.
• Readiness to contribute to teaching and BSc and MSc supervision

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance.
•  Development and career options of the big organization.
• We also offer a supportive academic environment in a community of committed scholars, excellent research infrastructures and the possibility to make use of funding opportunities to generate new research ideas.
• The University of Oulu offers flexible working hours, and an excellent work-life balance and provides a range of occupational healthcare services. Our competitive salaries include paid leave and an additional holiday bonus in the summer. Read more about working with us and our other staff benefits.
• Finland is one of the most liveable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Oulu is a city known for its stunning natural surroundings, vibrant cultural life, and friendly, easy-going atmosphere. Residents of Oulu enjoy Finland’s high standard of living combined with affordable housing. Read more about living in Oulu.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for four years (1.9.2024-31.8.2028), with a start date as soon as possible but no later than September 1, 2024. The successful candidate will be employed at the University of Oulu.

The salary will be based on levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for university-level 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 approximate 2500-2700 € per month, depending on the qualifications. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Applications, together with all relevant appendices, must be submitted using the electronic application form by May 19, 2024, at 23:59 (EET). The application shall be written in English and include the following:

1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing the applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why the applicant is interested in this position. Also, information on personal research interests and career plans should be described here.
2. Curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages) in accordance with the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. List of publications based on the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland 
4. Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copy of the original MSc degree certificate and, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English. In case the degree is still in process, please give an official notification from the supervisor or faculty to address the estimated date of completion.
5. Contact information of two senior/experienced researchers who may be asked to give a statement on the candidate.

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to a remote or on-site 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:

Principal investigator, Assoc. Prof. Matti Silveri, matti.silveri@oulu.fi, +358 40 7541759

Coordinator of H2FUTURE, Dr. Filipp Temerov, filipp.temerov@oulu.fi, +358 50 569 7739

1. Matti Silveri, +358407541759