Postdoctoral Researcher in Green Hydrogen and Biomass Valorization

The University of Jyväskylä’s Department of Chemistry invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Green Hydrogen and Biomass Valorization. This position is designed for candidates eager to advance sustainable hydrogen production by integrating biomass electro-oxidation with hydrogen evolution, aiming to improve energy efficiency and generate value-added organic acids. The role is embedded within a dynamic research environment, offering access to advanced electrochemistry laboratories and analytical instrumentation, and opportunities for collaboration with national partners. The successful candidate will synthesize and characterize electrocatalysts (including alloys, oxides, carbons) and porous electrodes, develop laboratory-scale electrochemical workflows (CV, CA, EIS, RDE, RRDE), and transition experiments to flow-cell and zero-gap MEA systems. Quantification of activity, efficiency, durability, and product selectivity using HPLC, MS, NMR, and other techniques is expected. The researcher will co-lead manuscripts, present results at conferences, participate in the supervision of MSc/PhD students, and contribute to techno-economic assessment (TEA), life cycle assessment (LCA), and new grant applications, potentially enabling a multi-year extension of the appointment. Applicants must hold a PhD in Electrochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field by the start date. Extensive hands-on experience in electrocatalysis and/or electrolysis, strong skills in materials synthesis and characterization (XRD, SEM/TEM, XPS, ICP), and proven ability to analyze electrochemical and analytical data and write scientific manuscripts in English are required. Additional desirable skills include experience with alkaline electrolysis, alcohol/biomass electro-oxidation, Ni/Co/Cu catalyst systems, flow cells/MEAs, gas-diffusion electrodes, ink formulation, zero-gap operation, method development in materials or electrochemical characterization, Python/Matlab/R for data analysis or automation, and exposure to TEA, LCA, or industry collaboration. Language skills and other requirements are stipulated by University of Jyväskylä regulations. The position offers a competitive salary (€3500–€5000/month gross) according to the JYU salary system, a settling-in allowance for relocation, support for conference travel (subject to budget), and a clear pathway to extend the postdoctoral appointment up to 3 years upon securing external funding. The University of Jyväskylä provides a lively campus environment, excellent research infrastructure, and a supportive community with a significant proportion of international staff. Jyväskylä, located in central Finland, offers a high standard of living, vibrant cultural scene, and excellent opportunities for outdoor and sports activities. Applications must be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by March 5, 2026. Required documents include a CV, motivation/cover letter, publication list, degree certificate, and contact details for two referees, all in English and PDF format. Applicants must have an active and public ORCID profile. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews. For further information, contact Associate Professor Ali Davoodi ([email protected]). Applications sent via email are not considered. The Department of Chemistry is internationally renowned for high-quality research and teaching, with key research areas in functional molecules and materials, chemical nanoscience, circular economy, and chemistry education. The department offers access to up-to-date chemistry infrastructure, including NMR, mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, ICP analytics, and laser laboratories, as well as the Nanoscience Center for nanofabrication and characterization. The University of Jyväskylä is committed to fairness, transparency, and diversity in its recruitment process, and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply.