Doctoral Candidate in Machine learning based analysis of X-ray scattering data from wood

The Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems is looking for

Doctoral Candidate in Machine learning based analysis of X-ray scattering data from wood

A detailed picture of the structure of wood cell walls is highly desired to accelerate the development of new, sustainable applications from this abundant renewable raw material. Recently developed imaging techniques based on X-ray scattering offer unprecedented possibilities for studying the hierarchical structure of wood, but the development of new automatized procedures for the data analysis is necessary.

We are searching for a PhD candidate to work in a newly granted Academy of Finland Research Fellow project NNxWOOD (2021-2026), which develops machine learning based approaches for analyzing X-ray scattering data from wood samples. Your role is to conduct scattering experiments using state-of-the-art laboratory and synchrotron facilities (Aalto University, University of Helsinki, MAX IV) and to implement machine learning tools (such as neural networks) to interpret and extract new information on wood structure from large volumes of scattering data. The position is based at the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems of Aalto University/School of Chemical Engineering (Otaniemi Campus, Espoo, Finland) in the Wood Material Science and Technology research group and supervised by Dr. Paavo Penttilä. The inspiring and international research environment offers state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, and the project is supported by national and international collaborators and the FinnCERES Flagship Programme of the Academy of Finland.

Your background and expertise

Required:

• Master's degree in physics, computer science, chemistry, materials science, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience on scientific programming (especially Python)
• Excellent writing and communication skills in English

Desired:

• Demonstrated experience on implementing machine learning algorithms (scikit-learn, PyTorch, Tensorflow, MXNet) is highly valued
• Experience or interest in structural characterization with synchrotron and laboratory X-ray methods (especially SAXS/WAXS and development of related data analysis), wood anatomy and cell-wall nanostructure, wood-water interactions

This position is suitable to a well-motivated and self-guided candidate, who is interested in conducting ambitious research in a highly multidisciplinary and growing area, linking AI technology with cutting-edge physical characterization and bio-based materials for a sustainable future.

In this position, you will apply the study right for doctoral studies in Aalto University. Thus, please check the student information and application criteria . In particular, please pay attention to mandatory skill level in English.

What we offer

The salary is defined according to the salary system of Finnish Universities. The expected starting salary for a doctoral candidate is approximately 2500  €/month and will increase with responsibilities and performance over time. The contract includes occupational health benefits. The time to complete the PhD is four years and the first contract is made for 1 year.

Additional information

For additional information, please contact Dr. Paavo Penttilä ([email protected] ). In recruitment process related questions, please contact HR Coordinator Sanni Mero ([email protected] ).

Ready to apply?

Please, submit your application through our online recruitment system by using the link on Aalto University’s web page ("Apply”). (If you are already working at Aalto, please apply via our internal system Workday -> Find Jobs.)

Applications should include a cover letter, CV and course transcripts of M.Sc. degree with grades.

The deadline for applications is October 3, 2021 and the employment would ideally start by the beginning of January 2022.

About Finland

Finland is a great place for living with or without family – it is a safe, politically stable and well-organized Nordic society. Finland is consistently ranked high in quality of life. For more information about living in Finland: https://www.aalto.fi/services/about-finland

Aalto University reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.

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