Postdoctoral Researcher to work on the ERC Starting Grant project NewGenH2Steel

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 4000 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 19,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world’s universities.

We are now looking for

a Postdoctoral Researcher

To join us for fixed-term employment for 3 years in the Materials and Mechanical Engineering Research Unit at the University of Oulu.

About us

Materials and Mechanical Engineering Research Unit, University of Oulu, is a world-leading research unit in the field of physical and mechanical metallurgy of advanced high-strength steels, with a focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of structures, vehicles, and modern machines. We strive to provide innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges and to contribute to the development of modern structures and mobile machinery that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

About the job

We are now looking for a highly motivated Postdoctoral researcher in the field of Materials Science, Mechanical, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering to work on the project NewGenH2Steel. This postdoctoral position aims to explore the fundamental physics of fatigue crack growth in multiphase metastable new-generation steels using advanced, multi-scale characterization combining in situ micromechanics/nanomechanics with high-energy synchrotron radiation and X-ray computed tomography (SR-μCT) to track defect interactions and non-propagating crack behaviors in real time.

The postdoctoral researcher will be integrated into the Steel Fatigue Research Group and will have the opportunity to interact on a daily basis with doctoral and postdoctoral researchers working on various field/research topic with diverse expertise. This position offers a unique opportunity to interact with the various research groups at the University of Oulu as well as other international collaborators in order to implement research goals. This role is well suited to individuals looking to deepen their expertise through innovative research while helping to create sustainable, high-performance steels for the carbon-neutral society.

Key Research Areas & Responsibilities

The selected postdoctoral researcher will lead investigations across several specialized fronts:

•  In Situ Micromechanical & Nanomechanical Testing: Execute cyclic loading and fatigue experiments on miniature specimens inside scanning electron microscopes (SEM) and transmission electron microscopes (TEM).
• Synchrotron X-ray Tomography & Diffraction: Utilize high-energy synchrotrons for non-destructive, 3D and 4D characterization of crack-tip opening displacements, crack closure, and localized phase transformations in bulk environments.
• Defect Interaction & Non-Propagating Cracks: Analyze the atomic and microscale interactions between small cracks and microstructural barriers (e.g., grain boundaries, phase interfaces, inclusions).
• Advanced Data Processing: Apply Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) and automated image segmentation to track 3D strain fields and crack-front morphology dynamically.
• Bridging the gap between macroscopic performance and microstructural deformation.
• Expertise with Abaqus, COMSOL Multiphysics, Crystal Plasticity, etc.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of researchers and engineers to design and execute experimental studies to validate modeling predictions.
• Present research findings at conferences, publish scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to the dissemination of knowledge within the scientific community.
• Work closely with industry partners to ensure the relevance and applicability of research outcomes to real-world engineering challenges.

What we offer

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team, with whom 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 here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• 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. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• 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?

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

• A doctoral degree in a relevant field (Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Physics, etc.). The degree must have been obtained no more than 10 years ago.
• A transdisciplinary research orientation with demonstrated research experience or interest
• Hands-on experience preparing and conducting in situ experiments at large-scale synchrotron radiation facilities is highly desirable.
• A proven track record in experimental fatigue and advanced in situ characterization (SEM/TEM nanoindentation or micromechanical testing).
• Strong programming and image processing skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, ImageJ) for analyzing large datasets.
• Capacity to collaborate in research and research dissemination activities.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills in English.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Motivated and self-driven with a passion for scientific research and innovation.

We also appreciate

The candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications, suitability for the research topics, and potential as researchers. The following merits are seen as strong advantages:

• Strong background in the mechanical metallurgy of steel and materials characterization.
• Familiarity with static/dynamic property characterizations.
• Experience with finite element simulation with COMSOL Multiphysics, Abaqus, and Crystal Plasticity.
• Experience with CALPHAD thermodynamic/diffusion models and/or phase field simulation
• Experience with in situ synchrotron and Tomography data analysis.
• Successful acquisition of competitive research funds.

When assessing the candidate’s merits for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher, attention will be paid to scientific excellence, such as research outputs, international scientific activities and collaboration, supervision of undergraduate students, pedagogical competence, societal relevance, impact and potential of scientific activities, and services for the academic community. 

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years, starting on 01.09.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on 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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3950-4400 € per month (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 31.07.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) summarising the applicant’s professional experience and expertise, and describing research interests and motivation related to the research project and contact information for two persons available for recommendation.
2. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland 
4. Research plan

The eligible applicants who best match the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. The shortlisted candidates will also be asked to submit their diplomas, and their references will be contacted. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including people of different ages, genders, languages, cultures, and minority communities.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Senior Research Fellow Sumit Ghosh ([email protected]) tel. +358 505946218 or Professor Jukka Kömi ([email protected]) tel. +358 405490311