Open position: Doctoral researcher in Process Metallurgy

Description

Hydrogen plasma smelting reduction (HPSR) is a promising metallurgical unit process, the development of which aims at creating an industrial process for producing steel and ferroalloys without CO2 emissions. One of the greatest challenges of the development work is the reliable prediction and control of the HPSR process. To this end, Process Metallurgy Research Unit is looking for a doctoral researcher for the mathematical modelling of the HPSR process. The goal is to develop a mathematical model that can predict the effect of melting, reaction and charging events on the matter and energy balances of the HPSR process. The applicant is expected to have an interest in mathematical modelling and an educational background in process metallurgy, chemical engineering, chemistry or physics. Experience with programming and balance calculation software is an advantage.

Research environment

The Process Metallurgy Research Unit focuses on pyrometallurgical metal production and other high-temperature processes with the main emphasis on the production of iron, steel and ferroalloys. Research is executed in close cooperation with the metallurgical industry. MET also has a wide national and international network with leading research institutes and universities working in the field of metallurgy and related disciplines. At the moment, the key areas of research are circular economy and the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in metal production by hydrogen reduction, electrified processes and biofuels. The main external funding sources include Business Finland, the Academy of Finland, RFCS funds and Horizon 2020 programs.

Requirements for the post

• Master’s degree in Process Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Physics.
• The degree must be completed with good grades, latest by the start of the employment.
• Good proficiency in the English language (both written and spoken)
• Good communication skills and the ability to work as a part of a team and independently.
  

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

The candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications, suitability for the research topic, and potential as researchers. The following merits are seen as a strong advantage:

• Documented knowledge of steelmaking and metallurgical processes
• Documented experience in mathematical modelling, thermodynamic calculations and/or flowsheet simulations.
• Documented experience in using programming languages (preferably Python, C++ or C#) or programming environments (e.g. MATLAB).
• Good knowledge of transport phenomena and chemical equilibria in metallurgical processes.
  

What we offer

• You will be a part of one of the leading research institutes in Process Metallurgy in Europe
• You will have an excellent possibility to advance the development of new CO2-free production technology in collaboration with leading Austrian and German research institutes,
• You will receive support from your team and supervisor, so that you can excel in your studies and research
• In addition to modern research facilities, we offer you personnel benefits such as occupational healthcare and affordable sport services
• A four-year doctoral researcher position and salary in accordance with the Finnish universities salary system (for teaching and research personnel): Doctoral Researcher demand level 2–4. In addition, a personal salary component based on work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50% of the job-specific component). The typical initial salary (level 2) for a Doctoral Researcher is 2300–2700 € per month (before taxes).
• The position is expected to start from 1.4.2023.
  

How to apply

Applications and all relevant appendices should be submitted by e-mail to Professor Timo Fabritius by February 28, 2023, at 23:59 (EET). 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 and career plans should be provided here
2. Curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages) in accordance with the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity (see http://www.tenk.fi/en/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae)
3. List of publications based on the guidelines of the Academy of Finland (see List of publications - Academy of Finland (aka.fi))
4. Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copy of the original MSc degree certificate and transcript of records 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 graduation.

Only applications containing all relevant appendices will be considered. Top candidates will be invited to an on-site or remote interview.

Further information

Ville-Valtteri Visuri
Associate Professor
Process Metallurgy Research Unit
ville-valtteri.visuri@oulu.fi

Timo Fabritius
Professor, Head of the Research Unit
Process Metallurgy Research Unit
timo.fabritius@oulu.fi