The Aerosol and Cloud Particle Optics group, based within the Aerosol Physics Laboratory at Tampere University, is inviting applications for a fully funded Doctoral Researcher position. This prestigious research appointment is funded through the European Research Council (ERC) project CRYSTAL, an ambitious initiative pioneering the application of advanced 3D nano-printing techniques in atmospheric science.
The researcher will investigate how nano- and microscale surface roughness on atmospheric ice crystals alters the scattering of sunlight, a key unknown that directly influences climate models and satellite-based observations of cirrus clouds.
Position Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Tampere University |
| Designation | Doctoral Researcher (Väitöskirjatutkija) |
| Project Title | CRYSTAL (ERC-Funded) |
| Research Area | Atmospheric Optics, Surface Metrology, Nano-fabrication & Experimental Physics |
| Duration | Fixed-term for 3.5 years |
| Starting Date | 1 January 2027 (or by mutual agreement) |
| Remuneration | Around €3,000 per month (based on Finnish University Salary System) |
| Location | Tampere, Finland |
| Application Deadline | 18 October 2026 (23:59 EET / UTC +2) |
Research Area & Project Focus
The position centers on the boundary between experimental optics, surface technology, and atmospheric physics. As part of the ERC CRYSTAL project, the successful candidate will focus on:
- Designing and executing optical characterizations of realistic nano-printed ice crystal surfaces.
- Analyzing polarization-resolved bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) measurements.
- Evaluating sample fabrication quality and identifying morphological characteristics of ice surfaces.
- Developing computational data-processing and quality-control pipelines using Python or MATLAB.
- Testing theoretical surface-scattering models (e.g., Harvey-Shack theory, ABg parameterizations) against precision laboratory data to enhance cirrus-cloud satellite models.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Candidates must satisfy the following criteria by the official starting date:
- Academic Background: An internationally recognized Master’s degree in Experimental Physics, Optics, Photonics, Atmospheric Science, or a related quantitative field.
- Core Technical Skills: Hands-on experience with optical or precision laboratory instruments, coupled with strong programming and data-analysis skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
- Language Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English. Knowledge of the Finnish language is not required.
- Desirable Assets: Prior exposure to light-scattering, gonioreflectometry, microscopy, nano-fabrication, BRDF analysis, or cloud microphysics is an advantage.
Scholarship and Employment Benefits
This position is offered as a full-time, salaried employment contract under the Finnish University Salary System:
- Competitive Salary: Starting at approximately €3,000 per month, with progressive increments as research milestones are achieved.
- Comprehensive Social Security: Full access to occupational healthcare services, comprehensive social insurance, and pension contributions.
- Well-being Support: Dedicated personal voucher allowances for sports, recreation, and cultural pursuits.
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible working arrangements within a supportive, modern, and internationally collaborative academic environment.
Location
The Aerosol Physics Laboratory is located on the vibrant campus of Tampere University in Tampere, Finland. Tampere is Finland’s largest inland urban center, renowned for high safety standards, stunning natural surroundings of lakes and forests, and a dynamic international research ecosystem.
Required Application Documents
All materials must be compiled in English and uploaded in PDF format:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (prepared according to the TENK guidelines).
- A complete List of Publications (following Academy of Finland guidelines, if applicable).
- A tailored Motivation Letter detailing your relevant laboratory experience, technical interests, and alignment with the CRYSTAL project goals.
- Contact information (email, phone, institution) for two academic or professional referees.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application and required PDF files through the official Tampere University recruitment portal before the stated deadline.
For scientific inquiries regarding the CRYSTAL project, you may contact Emma Järvinen via email at emma.jarvinen@tuni.fi.
Application Deadline: 18 October 2026 at 23:59 EET (UTC +2).
