Postdoctoral Researcher, Computational Electrochemistry

The Department of Chemistry , in the Faculty of Mathematics and Science is currently seeking to recruit a candidate for the position of

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER, Computational Electrochemistry

The fixed-term position starts October 1st , 2021 (or as soon as possible thereafter) and ends on August 31st , 2023.

A postdoctoral position in Computational electrochemistry is available in Adj. Prof. Marko Melander’s group at the Department of Chemistry at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland. The newly established group focuses on understanding electrocatalytic reactions with multiscale methods ranging from advanced grand canonical ensemble DFT methods (GCE-DFT) to microkinetic simulations. In the current project funded through the Academy of Finland Research Fellow grant “CompEL: Computational Electrochemistry to Resolve Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction” we will address the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) with constant electrode potential and pH GCE-DFT methods. The project involves collaboration with both experimental and theoretical groups.

Tasks and responsibilities

The advertised position focuses on improving the description of electrochemical solid-liquid interfaces using implicit/explicit solvent models and constant potential/pH GCE-DFT methods. The successful applicant will work on the following topics:

• Developing and implementing advanced implicit, dielectric solvent in models in the GPAW code
• Testing, validating, and parametrizing dielectric and classical DFT solvent models for electrochemical interfaces
• DFT molecular dynamic simulations of water-metal interfaces
• GCE-DFT simulations of ORR intermediates under electrocatalytic conditions.

This project will enable you to deepen your understanding of theoretical/computational electrocatalysis and modelling of electrochemical interfaces, to obtain implementation and method developments skills, and to work in supportive, cross-disciplinary environment on an interesting and challenging project.

Qualifications we are looking for

Candidates are expected to hold a PhD degree or equivalent in chemistry, physics, or a related field.

The successful candidate is expected to have a strong background in Python programming, DFT simulations, and at least one of the following topics:

Candidates are also expected to have familiarity with high-performance computing environments, code/method development, as well as excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

Precise working methods, team player attitude, and the ability to act independently are prerequisites for a Postdoctoral Researcher. The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of postdoctoral researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines.

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

At the University of Jyväskylä you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multi-science community where the welfare of each individual is important. Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland, and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. At Jyväskylä we offer a great and lively university campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide . 

The annual salary range will be approximately 38,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. A trial period of six months will be used when the positions are first filled.

How to apply

The application documents that should be included in pdf format:

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by August 31st , 2021.

For further information, please contact Adj. Prof. Marko Melander, [email protected] , phone +358 40 524 28 69.

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.

The main strength areas of the department are structural and synthetic chemistry, computational chemistry and spectroscopy, renewable natural resources and chemistry of living environment, and education in chemistry. Moreover, the department is a member of the Nanoscience Center of University of Jyväskylä, which promotes interdisciplinary research projects in nanoscience. The department has world-class laboratory infrastructure and large-scale computational resources.