Three Postdoctoral Researchers positions open in H2FUTURE programme

We are now looking for Three Postdoctoral Researchers to join us in Hydrogen Future as Climate Change Solution (H2FUTURE) programme at the University of Oulu, Finland, for fixed term of 3 years. The application period is open by 31st of March.

About the H2FUTURE profilation

H2FUTURE combines the University of Oulu’s research strengths in future H2 production, sustainable metals reduction processes, and hydrogen resistant steel development to a unique, holistic, multidisciplinary research community with ambition in enabling green and sustainable hydrogen transition. H2FUTURE is leveraging research excellence in future energy formation and its applications to mitigate the energy and environmental crisis.

H2FUTURE stands on fundamental research on physics, chemistry, process metallurgy, physical metallurgy and mechanical engineering related to H2FUTURE thematics. Thematics cover but are not limited to energy efficient and climate neutral hydrogen productions, fossil-free metals production and development of steels for hydrogen transition. H2FUTURE forms a part of our national profiling actions supported by the Academy of Finland and actively interacts with other profile areas of InStream, Genome of Steel and HiDyn within University of Oulu’s research focuses. By recruiting talented researchers from natural sciences and engineering, H2FUTURE is accumulating knowledge to bolster scientific profiles and moreover creating new research expertise to develop the profile at the University of Oulu.

Thematic in the H2FUTURE programme

Solar photocatalysis

As the demand for green hydrogen continues to rise, the high energy demands associated with conventional methods like electrolysis highlight the need for alternative approaches. Photocatalysis, leveraging solar energy for various applications, presents a promising approach for sustainable hydrogen production, CO2 reduction and/or pollutant degradation. The focus of this research theme is on the development and characterization of photocatalysts for direct photocatalytic water splitting, CO2 reduction and/or pollutant degradation aiming to unlock the potential of energy-efficient method towards green energy transition and emission free future.

Steels in Hydrogen Environment

The transition from carbon-based to hydrogen-based steelmaking processes represents a pivotal shift towards greener industrial practices. This research area is of great importance due to the essential role high-strength steels play in construction materials.

Material engineering - The occurrence of hydrogen embrittlement creates a significant challenge, leading to unpredictable collapses of metallic structures and applications. High-strength steels are particularly vulnerable to this phenomenon, demanding a comprehensive understanding of their properties. The urgent need for science-based solutions is evident, aiming to address hydrogen embrittlement issues and contribute to innovations in steelmaking processes.

Process metallurgy - Hydrogen reduction of metal oxides, specifically exploring the substitution of carbon with hydrogen as a reducing agent in iron and steelmaking. Both experimental and computational investigations of hydrogen reduction phenomena in laboratory and industrial settings will be explored, including various hydrogen reduction techniques, considering different process conditions and raw materials.

Hydrogen via Methane Pyrolysis

With the energy-intensive nature of electrolytic hydrogen production prompting exploration of alternative methods, thermocatalytic decomposition of methane or biomethane emerges as a scalable approach for green hydrogen production. To advance this field, catalyst development, innovative techniques, and compatible reactor designs are required. This research theme aims not only to contribute to the fundamental understanding of thermocatalytic processes but also to pave the way for practical advancements in sustainable hydrogen production.

We are looking for three postdoctoral researchers to join our team and facilitate green transition towards hydrogen future. We are looking research excellence to support or extend research thematics of H2FUTURE.

Do you have a doctoral degree in a relevant field and a transdisciplinary research orientation? Apply for the position and join our team!

Read more about the open positions and apply thru our open positions page.