Doctoral Researcher, Process Metallurgy

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 4000 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.

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 at the University of Oulu is an internationally renowned research unit that actively publishes in the field of metallurgy. We regularly collaborate with numerous industrial partners through research projects and have an extensive and well-established network within the field.

About the job

We are seeking a doctoral researcher for a research project focusing on dephosphorization, as well as other metal–slag and slag–refractory reactions under conditions simulating the hydrogen plasma smelting reduction (HPSR) process.

The experimental work of the doctoral thesis will primarily be carried out on a laboratory scale. The work combines experimental process metallurgy, materials characterization, and computational analysis of experimental results using statistical and phenomenological mathematical modeling techniques.

Success in the position requires a proactive working approach and fluent communication with supervisors and other project stakeholders. A strong understanding of applied mathematics is essential for successful performance in the role. Programming skills in any language and experience in computational processing of experimental data are considered an advantage.

What we offer

• A research project tied to a completely new unit process in metallurgy.
• Publication-based thesis structure.
• Supervision in an experienced environment.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits.
• Development and career options of the large 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 your close ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have an 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, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

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

• A suitable Master’s degree (e.g., materials science, chemical engineering, process metallurgy, experimental physics, analytical chemistry, or related field).
• Interest in metallurgical research.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Strong reporting and communication skills in English.
• You must apply for the right to study for a doctoral degree at the beginning of your employment in accordance with the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).

Proficiency in Finnish is considered an advantage, but it is not mandatory.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years with a negotiable starting date.

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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-3000 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Please apply by 14.06.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system. Only applications submitted via the recruitment system will be considered.

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

• Cover letter
• CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. The shortlisted candidates will also be asked to submit their diplomas, and their references will be contacted. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including people of different ages, genders, languages, cultures, and minority communities.

Contact Information

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

Työsopimuksen voimassaolo: määräaikainen yli 6 kuukautta | Työsuhteen luonne: kokoaikainen | Paikkojen lukumäärä: 1 | Työllisyysaste: 100% | Paikkakunta: Oulu | Maakunta: Pohjois-Pohjanmaa | Maa: Finland | Ilmoitusnumero: 2026/368 | Julkaistu: 2026-05-19 | Haku päättyy: 2026-06-14