Doctoral Researcher in Microfluidics and Biosensor Group

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 Microfluidics

to join us in the microfluidics and biosensor group led by Prof. Caglar Elbuken. Our group focuses on microfluidic networks and non-linear microfluidic systems. Droplet microfluidics, artificial cells, extracellular vesicles and viscoelastic fluids are some of our on-going, funded research projects.

About the job

This position is financially supported from our European Research Council (ERC) project aiming to discover the fundamental principles and implications of nonlinear dynamics in bifurcating networks. Specifically, we are interested in red blood cell flow dynamics in blood vessel network using microdroplet networks as model systems. We study the distribution of microdroplets using analytical, numerical and experimental microfluidic approaches to mimic biological capillary networks. Our research group performs interdisciplinary research at the intersection of engineering, physics, material science and biochemistry. 

What we offer?

• Outstanding research infrastructure such as advanced imaging and characterization center, cleanroom and material analysis services 
• Salary paid 12 months per year, including paid leave and an additional holiday bonus in the summer.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits. 
• The support and know-how of an established and enthusiastic research group where you can grow as an expert. 
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have an 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, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

As a doctoral researcher, you will join a research group of more than 10 researchers including three senior postdoctoral researchers. 

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

• Master's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, applied physics, materials science or similar
• Expertise on microfluidic system design, fabrication and experimentation
• Fluency in written and spoken English. Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Experience in academic writing
• Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and multinational environment

We also appreciate

• Hands-on expertise on droplet microfluidic systems (optional) 
• Experience on multiple microfluidic projects (optional)

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 1 June 2025 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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-2950 € per month (before taxes).  A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Please apply by 30.04.2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. CV (max 3 pages)
2. Motivation letter summarizing expertise and research interests (max 2 pages) 
3. Diplomas: Scanned copies of diplomas, undergraduate and master's transcripts
4. (optional) A maximum of 3 selected publications (your refereed journal articles) related to the position

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 Prof. Caglar Elbuken ([email protected]). 

1. Caglar Elbuken, +3580504392464