Postdoctoral Researcher, SEMACRET

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.

The following position is open in the University of Oulu:

Postdoctoral researcher in a research project: Sustainable exploration for orthomagmatic (critical) raw materials in the EU: Charting the road to the green energy transition (SEMACRET), funded by Horizon Europe program. The SEMACTER consortium includes 16 partners from EU, UK, South Africa and is, coordinated by Oulu Mining School (OMS).

We are seeking for talented and motivated candidate for a two-year postdoctoral researcher position in the field of ore geology, mineral exploration, prospectivity modelling, or related disciplines.

Position description:

Critical raw materials (CRMs) are fundamental to the EU industrial value chains and strategic sectors, particularly with regard to the green energy transition. This project focuses on exploration for orthomagmatic ore deposits hosting important green transition raw materials. To ensure efficient and sustainable exploration targeting, we need to translate multiple key factors for ore formation to mappable geodata including geology, geophysics and geochemistry. Prospectivity modelling will be utilized to integrate multiple GIS based geodata to vector towards high mineral potential area at a regional scale.

OMS is a multidisciplinary research unit that integrates scientific disciplines from exploration to mining and mineral processing. Research in geology, geophysics, surficial geochemistry, providing an excellent background for the current research topic. In the SEMACRET project, there will be intensive international collaboration, providing excellent opportunities for early career researchers to develop their skills and networking in a cross- disciplinary environment, and advance her/his career. The laboratory facilities available include OMS research centre, the Centre for Microscopy and Nanotechnology in Oulu, the Finnish Geoscience Laboratory in Espoo, and comprehensive geo-database in Finland. The position is to be supervised by Professors Shenghong Yang (economic geology) and Elena Kozlovskaya (geophysics).

Requirements for a postdoctoral researcher

The successful candidate must possess a PhD degree in the fields of economic geology, geophysics, or related disciplines that have been completed by 1 June 2022 (or at latest before the employment contract starts). This position requires good cooperation and overall communication skills, fluent written and oral English language, and readiness for independent work. You will be located in Oulu, but the task requires readiness to domestic and international travelling to project workshops, scientific conferences, field work etc. Teaching and supervision responsibilities can be expected as part of the work.

Salary

The salary of the selected doctoral student will be set on levels 5 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 %). The salary is thus in practice roughly 3,300 – 3,800 € per month, depending on the appointee’s qualification and experience.

The earliest starting term of the position is 1 June, 2022 or slightly later. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

Application

Applications must be submitted using the electronic application form by May 31st, 2022, 23:59 (Finnish local time), with the following attachments as four separate pdf files:

• Complete CV according to the guidelines of the Finnish Board on Research Integrity (https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae) containing contact information of at least two referees (max. size limit of the attachment: 5 Mbytes)
• List of publications according to the guidelines of the Academy of Finland (https://www.aka.fi/en/research-funding/apply-for-funding/how-to-apply-for-funding/az-index-of-application-guidelines2/list-of-publications/)
• Motivation letter (max. 1 page) describing prior knowledge and research interests and career plans (1 – 2 pages; max. size limit of the attachment: 2 Mbytes).
• Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned electronic copies of diplomas and transcripts of the records of relevant previous degrees, official translations to English or Finnish.

NOTE: Applications sent by email will not be considered.

Other relevant information

The eligible applicants fitting best in the research profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified when the selection process is completed.

Contact

Prof. Shenghong Yang, [email protected],

Prof. Elena Kozlovskaya, [email protected]

About Oulu, Finland

Finland is one of the most liveable countries in the world, 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 in the Nordics 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