Doctoral Researcher in In-situ and Operando Spectroscopy and Scattering Techniques for Oxygen Evolution Reaction Mechanism Studies University of Oulu in Finland

The University of Oulu is recruiting a Doctoral Researcher for an interdisciplinary project on in-situ and operando spectroscopy and scattering techniques for studying the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) mechanism. The position is based in the Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit at the Faculty of Science, University of Oulu, Finland.

This PhD project sits at the intersection of electrochemistry, materials science, spectroscopy, synchrotron radiation, and computational data analysis. The successful candidate will investigate how electrocatalysts evolve structurally, electronically, and chemically under realistic operating conditions. A central aim is to build mechanistic understanding of catalytic activity during oxygen evolution, using advanced laboratory and synchrotron-based characterization.

The work involves designing and developing advanced in-situ and operando electrochemical cells compatible with spectroscopy and scattering experiments; assembling and maintaining experimental setups; and conducting Raman spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-energy X-ray diffraction (HEXRD), total scattering, and related methods. The project also includes processing and interpreting multimodal datasets from Raman, XRD, XPS, XAS, and electrochemical measurements to connect catalyst structure, oxidation state, and kinetics.

In addition, the researcher will develop automated workflows and data-processing pipelines using Python, MATLAB, and other scientific tools, carrying out spectral fitting, kinetic analysis, multivariate statistics, visualization, and data integration. The position offers opportunities to work with leading international collaborators and to participate in experimental campaigns at major synchrotron facilities.

The University of Oulu offers comprehensive training in operando spectroscopy and scattering, electrochemistry, synchrotron experiments, scientific programming, and multimodal analysis. The role provides access to advanced laboratory instrumentation and international facilities, and is intended to build strong expertise for future careers in academia, national laboratories, or industry. Staff benefits include wellness support, career development opportunities, flexible working conditions, and relocation support through the Buddy Programme and Spouse Network.

Eligibility highlights: an MSc degree in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field; strong interest in electrocatalysis and renewable energy technologies; good English skills; and willingness to travel for synchrotron work. Experience with Raman, XRD, XPS, XAS, electron microscopy, electrochemical characterization, and scientific programming is advantageous. Applicants must also apply for the right to study for a doctoral degree at the start of employment under UniOGS requirements.

Funding and employment: the position is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for 4 years, starting 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The starting gross salary is approximately €2600–3200 per month before taxes, plus a performance-based salary component of up to 50% of the job-specific component. A 6-month trial period applies.

Application deadline: 11 September 2026 at 23:59 Finnish local time. Applications must be submitted through the university recruitment system and include an English cover letter and CV following the specified narrative CV guidelines. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed online or on-site, and may be asked to provide diplomas and references.