Doctoral Student, Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Unit, Faculty of Technology

The North changes the world – more sustainable, more intelligent, more humane. We, at the University of Oulu, work as part of the international science community to produce new scientific information and science-based solutions. We are committed to educate future pioneers to build a more sustainable, intelligent and humane world. Creating new, taking responsibility and succeeding together are values that build a strong foundation for all our actions. We offer a working environment where individuals can cultivate their skills, do meaningful work, and develop professionally. Our university's several specialized research and service units enable extensive and diverse development and career opportunities for experts in various fields

Finland (http://www.studyinfinland.fi/) is a global leader in eco-innovation and the development of novel cleantech solutions. There are 2,000 companies operating in the Finnish cleantech sector, generating up to 20 % of Finland’s total exports. The Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Unit of the Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu, is opening a position for a Doctoral Student. The field of the research is the solidification/stabilization of highly saline wastewaters into alkali-activated aluminosilicate matrix.

We are now looking for a motivated Doctoral Student for the whole duration of the thesis work, four years.

Organization

Fibre and Particle Engineering Research Unit (http://www.oulu.fi/pyokuien/ ) carries out research in the field of biomaterials and biochemicals as well as advanced inorganic materials in circular economy. The research group, with a staff of roughly 40, consists of approximately 15 doctoral students, 15 postdoctoral researchers and master’s thesis students. In the area of inorganic materials and circular economy the emphasis of research is on processing of mine tailings, biomass fly ash, slag and other inorganic industrial residuals and utilization of them in advanced inorganic materials and construction. Current projects within the alkali activation research are stabilization of harmful substances of ash and slag, geopolymerization of sulphidic mine tailings and mineral wool waste.

Work description

The motivation behind the study is sustainable utilization of industrial side streams and mineral resources in advanced inorganic materials. In alkali activation, alumina- and silica-rich materials are activated with alkali solution to yield ceramic materials, using room temperature processes. The work will be done as laboratory work and will consist of design and execution of research plan with the aid of the laboratory staff. The work is both academically challenging and has a large industrial relevance and interest.

Part of the thesis work is recommended to be completed as a brief international research exchange. The education requirements for a Doctoral degree studies are given by the University of Oulu graduate school UniOGS . The position includes a maximum of 5 % teaching requirement or other infrastructural responsibilities.

Topic of the candidate’s Doctoral thesis will be related to the solidification/stabilization of highly saline wastewaters into solid alkali-activated aluminosilicate matrix (such as geopolymers). Work will consist of planning, conducting, and reporting of laboratory experiments. Experience in relevant material science, chemistry, or water treatment is beneficial for the applicant.

Eligibility

We expect you to have a Master’s degree in inorganic chemistry, mineralogy, process engineering, environmental engineering or equivalent. You should also be highly motivated, have good analytical and problem-solving skills and fluent both written and spoken English.

Salary

The position is filled for a maximum of four-year period and a six-month trial period is applied in the position. The employment begins as soon as the candidate is chosen or as agreed. The salary will be set on levels 2 – 4 of the national salary scale for the teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a supplementary remuneration will be given for personal achievement and performance (max. 50 %). In practice, the salary is roughly 2400 – 3300 € per month for an early stage researcher, depending on the appointee’s qualifications and progress of the doctoral thesis. 

Application

Please fill out your application online at latest by August 29, 2021 at 23:59 (Finnish local time). Applications must include the following:

1)      CV including education and relevant academic/work experience according to guidelines of Finnish National Board on Research Integrity (https://www.tenk.fi/en/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae)

2)      Official record of transcripts and copy of degree certificate (and proof of language skill)

3)      Cover letter (maximum 1 page) with a short description of interest in the scientific studies and the specific research field

4)      Contact details of 2 – 3 referees

Further information

For further information, please contact:

Professor Mirja Illikainen: +358 (0) 40 588 5904; mirja.illikainen(at)oulu.fi or

Assistant Professor Tero Luukkonen: +358 (0) 50 529 8276; tero.luukkonen(at)oulu.fi

About Oulu, Finland

Finland is one of the most livable countries, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. The Oulu region is home to over 200 000 people making it the largest urban centre and one of the fastest growing regions in northern Finland. Oulu is a combination of beautiful, northern nature, vivid cultural life and modern technology. Oulu is also known for its highly-educated people and friendly, easy-going atmosphere. Living in Oulu is easy – everything is only max. 20 minutes away! Find out more about Oulu: https://www.oulu.fi/university/living-in-oulu