Postdoctoral Researcher for Realization of Novel 2D-semiconductor Based Heterogenous Photocatalysts

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 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.  

Dimensionality defines the spatial extensions of matters, and photocatalysis accelerates photochemical processes in the presence of catalytic media. What will happen if photocatalysis meets the dimensional confinements that may impact whole photochemical process? In the ERC-Consolidator project “Cross-dimensional Activation of Two-Dimensional Semiconductors for Photocatalytic Heterojunctions” (CATCH), we are going to activate dimensionally unique 2D semiconductors as high-performance photocatalysts and break the deadlock of practical photocatalysis for sustainability of mankind.

We are now looking for a

Postdoctoral researcher in 2D-semiconductor-based heterojunction synthesis and characterizations

to join us in Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit (NANOMO) at the Faculty of Science for a fixed-term (18 months) position.

The NANOMO research unit focuses on molecular scale materials physics and novel applications of spectroscopic and imaging techniques. The research topics include electronic structure research in nanomaterials, functional materials (e.g. steel, carbon negative materials, and nanocatalysts), biomedical research, mesoscopic quantum structures in materials, and physics didactics. The main external funding sources are the European Union ERC, Horizon Europe programs, ERDF funds, Research Council of Finland and other national and international funds. The unit coordinates Finnish national participation in the MAX IV Laboratory synchrotron radiation facility, participates in the operation of the FinEstBeAMS beamline, and contributes to the European Free Electron Laser Eu-XFEL project.

About the job

You will focus on the synthesis and characterizations of heterogenous photocatalysts built on 2D semiconductor matrices. The targeted synthetic materials are based on natural species and invented 2D semiconductors. The applied synthetic routes will be emphasized on but not limited to dry methods (e.g. pyrolysis or deposition), wet chemistry (e.g. hydrothermal techniques) and combination of both. The photocatalysts will be refined and characterized by the candidate through various experimental techniques commonly used in materials sciences. The work will be performed as a part of an international and multidisciplinary research team dedicated both to experiment and theory. Your tasks also include publishing results in leading international scientific journals, assisting in supervision of doctoral researchers, and participating in education activities and writing of funding applications.

What we offer?

• You will be a part of a highly talented research group supported by the European Research Council Consolidator grant.
• You will receive support from your team and supervisor, so that you can excel in your research.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close-ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• 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. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• 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.

Who are you?

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

• Doctoral degree in materials science, condensed matter physics, chemical engineering, or other relevant field. Please note that the degree must have been obtained within the last 10 years, latest by the start of the employment. 
• Ability for independent scientific work.
• Experience in photocatalysis for water purification and/or hydrogen evolution reaction.
• Very good proficiency in the English language (both written and spoken).
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as a part of team and independently.

We also appreciate

• Documented knowledge in electro-(photo)catalysis, and immobilization of nanomaterials.
• Demonstrated experience in synthetic growth and characterization of (nano)crystals, data analysis and reporting.
• Documented knowledge in condensed matter physics, electronic structure of materials, microelectronics, and chemical reaction dynamics.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 18 months as of 01.11.2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 5-6 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 (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 3600-4200 € per month (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 31.10.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

1. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity. 
2. Motivation letter.
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland.
4. Certificates/Diplomas, scanned copy of the original doctoral degree certificate and, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English. In case the degree is still in process, please give an official notification from the supervisor or faculty to address the estimated date of finishing. 
5. Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation.

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. 

Contact Information

Research and academic issues, please contact:

Professor Wei Cao, the PI of the project CATCH

NANOMO Unit

wei.cao@oulu.fi

Administrative issues, please contact:

Adj. Prof. Samuli Urpelainen, vice head of NANOMO Unit

samuli.urpelainen@oulu.fi

1. Samuli Tapio Urpelainen,
2. Wei Cao,