Summary
The Materials and Mechanical Engineering (MME) research unit at the Faculty of Technology, University of Oulu, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join an industry–academia collaborative project. The position focuses on investigating the structural integrity, fracture mechanical properties, and hydrogen embrittlement resistance of welded pipeline steels intended for hydrogen transport in Nordic conditions.
Postdoc Opportunity: Fracture Mechanics for Hydrogen Infrastructure, University of Oulu, Finland
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher
Job Overview
| Detail | Description |
| Employer | University of Oulu (Faculty of Technology, MME) |
| Contract Type | Full-time, Temporary (Fixed term of 2.5 years) |
| Salary | ~€3,800 – €4,400 per month (gross) + performance component |
| Start Date | Approx. October 1, 2026 (or as soon as possible) |
| Trial Period | 6 months |
| Reference Number | 2026/467 |
Research Area
Materials Science, Physical Metallurgy, Fracture Mechanics, and Weldments.
Location
Oulu, Pohjois-Pohjanmaa, Finland
Eligibility / Qualification
- Education: A doctoral degree in Materials Engineering, Civil/Structural Engineering, or a relevant field, awarded not more than ten (10) years ago.
- Key Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, ability to work independently and within a team, and excellent written and interpersonal communication skills in English.
- Research Abilities: Demonstrated capacity for transdisciplinary research, self-driven passion for scientific innovation, and a flair for writing high-quality scientific papers.
- Strong Advantages:
- Background in the mechanical properties of steels/metals, welds, and fracture mechanics.
- Hands-on experience with mechanical testing (e.g., fracture toughness, fatigue).
- A strong publication record in relevant topics.
- Experience acquiring competitive research funds or modeling relevant phenomena.
Job Description (Key Responsibilities)
- Conduct high-quality, experimental research to characterize the fracture mechanical properties and hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility of welded pipeline steels.
- Investigate the microstructural origins of fracture behavior in weldments and critical structural zones.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary engineers and researchers across the MatH2 consortium to assess structural integrity under hydrogen-relevant conditions.
- Work closely with industry partners to ensure research aligns with application-driven requirements and contribute to project deliverables.
- Present findings at international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals, and contribute to technical reports.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application in English through the university’s online recruitment system. The application must include:
- CV (following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity).
- Cover Letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing professional experience, expertise, research interests, and motivation.
- List of Publications (following the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland).
- Contact Information of two persons available for recommendations.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview (on-site or online) and asked to submit their diplomas and Master’s thesis.
Last Date to Apply
August 23, 2026 (23:59 Finnish local time)
