Doctoral Researcher in Process Metallurgy (reduction of chromite)

The University of Oulu is one of the biggest and most multidisciplinary universities in Finland. We create new knowledge and innovations that help to solve global challenges. We offer you an international and inspiring working environment where you are given responsibility and can use your skills, develop yourself and do work that matters. Our flexible and family-friendly workplace makes it easy for you to balance work and leisure. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world´s universities.

We are now looking for a

Doctoral Researcher

to join us in the Process Metallurgy Research Unit at the Faculty of Technology.

The Process Metallurgy Research Unit (MET) focuses on pyrometallurgical metal production and other high-temperature processes with the main emphasis on the production of iron, steel, and ferroalloys. Research is executed in close cooperation with the metallurgical industry. MET also has a wide national and international network with leading research institutes and universities working in the field of metallurgy and related disciplines. At the moment, the key areas of research are circular economy and the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in metal production by hydrogen reduction, electrified processes and biofuels. The main external funding sources include Business Finland, Research Council of Finland, RFCS funds and Horizon EU programs.

About the job

The doctoral researcher will work in the Towards Carbon Neutral Metals 2 (TOCANEM 2) project, a large consortium project targeted at reducing the CO2 emissions of stainless steel and non-ferrous metals production.

As part of the TOCANEM 2 project, the doctoral researcher will be studying the reduction of chromite ore to produce ferrochrome. More specifically, the doctoral researcher will study experimentally the pre-reduction of chromite with gaseous reductants and hydrogen plasma smelting reduction of the pre-reduced material using laboratory-scale furnaces. The results will be characterized using typical metallographic methods with supporting optical emissions spectroscopy measurements from the plasma.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team where 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. 
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close-ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have a HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

A successful candidate for the position must have the following:

• Master’s degree in Process Metallurgy, Materials Science, Chemistry or Physics.
• The degree must be completed with good grades, latest by the start of the employment.
• Basic knowledge of metallurgical processes.
• Good proficiency in the English language; both written and spoken.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as a part of a team and independently.

We also appreciate

• Experience in high-temperature laboratory experiments.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and/or machine learning to interpret experimental data sets.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 01.10.2024 or earlier.

The salary will be based on levels 2-4 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 approximately 2500–2700 € per month (before taxes and compulsory deductions for contributions to social insurance schemes according to national law).

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 16.06.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our Varbi recruitment system.

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

1. Cover letter
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. Certificates/Diplomas
4. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation

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

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, genders and lingual, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

Ville-Valtteri Visuri
Associate Professor
E-mail: ville-valtteri.visuri@oulu.fi
Tel. +358 50 412 5642.

1. Ville-Valtteri Visuri, +358504125642