Researcher in Mechanical Engineering

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

Two doctoral researchers

to join our multi-talented Machine and Vehicle Design (MVD) research group.

Doctoral researchers are positioned in the subjects of digital twin, system-level simulation, model generation, virtual assembly, physics-based simulation, and data analysis and steel fatigue in mobile, heavy machinery, and marine applications.

The faculty and the research group

The position is in the Materials and Mechanical Engineering Research Unit (MME) of the Faculty of Technology at the University of Oulu. The Machine and Vehicle Design (MVD) research group currently has three professors and a research director with a broad background from different research disciplines. Our research drives sustainable application of digitalization for industry transformation via developing virtual methodologies. Our research enables the European industry to develop a green competitive edge through the development and application of novel zero-emission technologies.

The simulation-based approaches are the core methodologies developed in the research group. The goal is to generate product-specific (e.g. for low production volume, highly tailored) information with dynamics-based simulation models and with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) to create parameter sensitivity and correlation models. This could be used for example for developing smart software features or important information for predictive maintenance.

About the positions

The positions include working on research projects that aim to develop methodologies to utilize physics-based simulation models for generating the knowledge of parameter sensitivities by combining for example real-time simulation with artificial intelligence. In addition, the influence of system-level understanding beyond the component level and the complexity of simulation models to decision-making is one of your future key development areas.

The main tasks of the positions include

• Conducting research in the field of physics-based simulation or system-level simulation
• Doctoral researchers will be supervised work on the subjects and expected to disseminate research results in publications, and conferences, as well as writing and defending the doctoral thesis.
• The positions include teaching-related duties.

Qualification requirements

• We expect highly motivated candidates with a master´s degree in mechanical engineering, or in a related subject.
• Working or conducting research with dynamic applications, developing multibody system dynamics, or finite element formulation are required. Experience working within a multidisciplinary research team is seen as a benefit.
• Excellent command of the English language, both spoken and written, is needed to work on these multidisciplinary projects.

Good communication, teamwork skills, capability for independent work and organizational skills are beneficial for the positions.

What we offer

• You will become a part of a highly talented research group, working on strategically and globally significant research areas of digitalization of design in mechanical engineering.
• You will receive support not only from your team and supervisor but also from the university's wide variety of support services so that you can excel in your studies and research/work.
• In addition to modern research facilities, we offer you personnel benefits such as free occupational healthcare, wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being, and endless opportunities to develop your skills and competencies. Read more about other staff benefits. 
• 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 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 .

Salary

The positions are filled for a fixed four-year period. The degree must have been completed by Feb 29th, 2024.

The salary will be based on level 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 typical starting salary for a doctoral researcher is approx. 2400-2700€ per month (before taxes). A trial period of six months is applied for the position. 

How to apply

Applications and all relevant enclosures should be submitted using the electronic application form by 5th of April 2024 at 23:59 (Finnish local time).  The application should be written in English and include the following:

1) A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing the applicant’s professional experience and expertise and describing why the applicant is interested in this position. Also, information on personal research interests, experience, and career plans is valuable to provide here

2) Curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages) following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 

3) List of publications (if applicable) based on the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 

4) A research plan, max. 3 pages

5) Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copy of the original master's degree certificate and transcript of records and, when necessary, official translations to Finnish or English

6) Contact information of two senior/experienced researchers (if applicable) who may be asked to give a statement on the candidate

Only applications containing all relevant appendices submitted through the e-recruitment system will be considered. Top candidates will be invited to an on-site or remote interview.

Further information

Professor Juho Könnö, juho.konno@oulu.fi, +358 50 343 5385

Professor Emil Kurvinen, emil.kurvinen@oulu.fi, +358 50 569 5969

Faculty of Technology

Materials and Mechanical Engineering research unit