Doctoral Researcher, Water and Wastewater Treatment

We are now looking for

Doctoral researcher 

to join our Industrial Water Research Group in Chemical Process Engineering, Faculty of Technology in the University of Oulu. The Doctoral Researcher will be based in the Interreg Aurora project “New tools for managing PFAS challenge (NeTo-PFAS, 2024-2026)”. The project will focus on developing sustainable and cost-effective solutions to break down PFAS in the environment. The combination of microbial degradation and chemical degradation will be tested for PFAS elimination in contaminated waters. The project advances our understanding of biodegradability of PFAS and their substitutes as well as their biodegradation efficiencies in complex water matrices. The study is also expected to provide novel insights into PFAS biodegradation mechanisms and pathways. The NeTo-PFAS consortium is made up of three partners, Luleå University of Technology (coordinator), University of Oulu, and UiT The Arctic University of Norway.

About the job

As a doctoral researcher, you will investigate the microbial degradation of long- and short-chain PFAS and their substitutes in complex water matrices. You will demonstrate the optimized process in real contaminated waters in collaboration with other partners. You will disseminate research results through scientific publications and conference presentations. The work includes a short-term research visit to Luleå University of Technology, in Sweden. The details of the research visit will be planned and discussed with the selected candidate taking into account project needs.

What we offer?

• Supportive and international research environment in which your work is valued and your contribution is recognized;
• 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?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (in bioprocess engineering, biochemistry, chemistry, chemical process engineering, environmental engineering or related fields.) that has been completed with good grades, latest by the start of the employment;
• High motivation, independence, and the ability to work in a group;
• Fluent in written and spoken English;
• Ability to travel;
• Experience in aseptic laboratory work and microbial cultivation techniques;
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate

• Finnish language skills
• Experience in UPLC-MS analysis

Salary

The position is fixed term for 4 years and is filled as of 1.5.2024 (or as soon as possible thereafter, the start date is flexible and can be negotiated).

The salary will be based on the 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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 2500-2600 € per month (before taxes).

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

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by Friday, 2nd of February 2024  (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. A motivation letter summarizing applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why applicant is interested in this position (max 2 pages).
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. Certificates/Diplomas: a scanned copy of the original Master’s and Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript of records and, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English. In case the degree is still in process, please give an official notification from the supervisor or faculty to address the estimated date of graduation;
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

For further information, please contact tiina.leiviska(at)oulu.fi