Postdoctoral Researcher for NewGenH2Steel at the University of Oulu, Finland

The University of Oulu is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the Materials and Mechanical Engineering Research Unit. This role is a key part of the ERC Starting Grant project, NewGenH2Steel, which focuses on the fundamental physics of fatigue crack growth in advanced high-strength steels.

Postdoctoral Researcher for NewGenH2Steel at the University of Oulu, Finland

Position Overview

Research Area

The research focuses on the physical and mechanical metallurgy of advanced high-strength steels. The work involves multi-scale characterization to explore fatigue crack growth, track defect interactions, and analyze non-propagating crack behaviors using advanced techniques like in situ micromechanics and synchrotron radiation.

Eligibility & Qualifications

• Education: Doctoral degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Physics, or a related field (obtained within the last 10 years).
• Technical Skills: * Hands-on experience with in situ experiments (SEM/TEM nanoindentation or micromechanical testing).
  • Experience with synchrotron radiation facilities is highly desirable.
  • Strong programming and image processing skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, ImageJ).
• Soft Skills: Excellent written and interpersonal communication in English, strong analytical/problem-solving skills, and a collaborative mindset.
• Preferred Assets: Familiarity with finite element simulation (Abaqus, COMSOL, Crystal Plasticity), CALPHAD, and a strong background in mechanical metallurgy of steel.

Job Description

The successful candidate will join the Steel Fatigue Research Group with the following key responsibilities:

• In Situ Testing: Execute cyclic loading and fatigue experiments inside SEM/TEM environments.
• Advanced Imaging: Utilize high-energy synchrotron X-ray tomography and diffraction for 3D/4D characterization.
• Data Analysis: Apply Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) and automated image segmentation to track strain fields and crack morphology.
• Collaboration: Work with interdisciplinary teams, industry partners, and international collaborators to bridge the gap between microscopic deformation and macroscopic performance.
• Dissemination: Present findings at conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to knowledge sharing.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted in English through the official recruitment system by 31.07.2026 (23:59 Finnish time). Your application should include:

1. Motivation Letter (max 2 pages, including contact info for two references).
2. CV (following the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity guidelines).
3. List of Publications (following the Research Council of Finland guidelines).
4. Research Plan.

For further inquiries, please contact Senior Research Fellow Sumit Ghosh (sumit.ghosh@oulu.fi) or Professor Jukka Kömi (jukka.komi@oulu.fi).

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