Postdoctoral Researcher researcher in modelling of NMR spectroscopic parameters of porous materials, Faculty of Natural Sciences

The University of Oulu is one of the biggest and most multidisciplinary universities in Finland. We create new knowledge and innovations that help to solve global challenges. We offer you an international and inspiring working environment where you are given responsibility and can use your skills, develop yourself and do work that matters. Our flexible and family-friendly workplace makes it easy for you to balance work and leisure. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world´s universities. 

We are now looking for

a Postdoctoral Researcher (2 years)

to join in the NMR Research Unit at the Faculty of Science.

We are an internationally established, combined experimental and theoretical team of about 30 people, of which 50% with a PhD degree. We develop experimental, theoretical, and computational research methods based on magnetic resonance phenomena and apply those methods to topical problems in molecular and materials sciences. Our strength is in the tight connection between state-of-the-art measurements and calculations. We have an open and encouraging working atmosphere and have a substantial track record in successful funding applications both at the Academy of Finland and in EU programs.

CPU-intensive computational research is carried out in the facilities of the national supercomputer center (CSC)as well as in the European High-Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) supercomputer LUMI. Local Linux cluster belonging to the Finnish Computing Competence Infrastructure (FCCI) are used for high-throughput production calculations.

Subject field and description of the positions

The postdoctoral position is a part of the Academy of Finland research project: NMR parameter modelling of porous materials:relativistic, dynamic, and environmental effects led by University Researcher Perttu Lantto.

The project aims to develop efficient approaches to model NMR parameters in large molecular systems at real physical conditions. This is achieved by combining state-of-the-art quantum chemical (QC) methods at relativistic level for heavy-element containing systems with atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations utilizing modern semi-empirical and machine learning (ML) approaches. The work is carried out in close collaboration with local and international experimental NMR researchers, where modeling is essential part providing predictions and microscopic interpretations of experimental observations. As a post-doctoral researcher, you will focus on developing QM/MD/ML-methods for large length- and time-scale simulations in new porous materials. The developed approaches will have great impact on materials NMR studies.

Required qualifications and assessment

You must have a completed doctoral degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field, and show a visible scientific profile. We expect you to have experience in first principles modelling and/or MD simulations. Also, some knowledge of ML potentials in atomistic simulations is an asset. Strong computer experience including basic Linux/Unix knowledge, shell scripting, and mastery of at least one relevant programming language (e.g., Python, Fortran, C/C++) is required for success in the project.

Fluent English, good communication and teamwork skills are required. Further, demonstrated potential in acquiring supplementary (extramural) funding, and teaching experience will be taken as a merit when choosing the scientist. When assessing the applicant’s qualifications, issues to be considered will include scientific publications, thesis supervision, activity in the scientific community, practical familiarity with the field in question, scientific work abroad, and other international activities.

As part of the NMR Research Unit, the duties include supervising scientific research of BSc, MSc and doctoral students. In addition, participation in teaching within the physics curriculum and acquiring research funding are naturally expected.

What we offer

• We offer you a place in a highly talented research group, working to solve significant research problems in the field of NMR.
• 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.

Salary

The position is fixed term for 2 years starting from 1.1.2024, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 5-6 of the demand level chart for university–level teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (maximum of 50.0% of the job-specific component). The salary is thus in practice roughly 3700–4300 € per month (before taxes), depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience.

A six-month trial period will be effective in the beginning of the two-year contract.

Application Procedure

Applications, together with all relevant enclosures, should be submitted using the electronic application form by October 15, 2023, 23:59 (Finnish local time). The application should be written in English and include the following:

1) Brief curriculum vitae in English

2) List of publications in international peer-reviewed journals

3) Brief description of research merits

4) Brief (1-2 pages) research and action plan in English

5) Contact information of two persons who may be asked to give a statement of the candidate

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to a remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders and members of different language, cultural or minority groups.

For further information regarding the filling of this post:

University Researcher Perttu Lantto, NMR Research Unit, University of Oulu,

tel. +358 2944 81312,

email: perttu.lantto(at)oulu.fi

Type of employment: Temporary position
Contract type: Full time
First day of employment: 1.1.2024
Salary: 3700 – 4300 € / month before taxes
Number of positions: 1
Full-time equivalent: 100%
City: Oulu
County: Pohjois-Pohjanmaa
Country: Finland
Reference number: 2023/418
Contact:

1. Perttu Lantto, +358294481312

Published: 2023-09-15
Last application date: 2023-10-15