Post-doctoral researcher in Urban Physics on Heat Waves and Air Quality LUT University in Finland

Post-doctoral researcher in Urban Physics on Heat Waves and Air Quality at LUT University

LUT University is recruiting a post-doctoral researcher to join the Urban Physics research group within the newly established LUT Civil Engineering team at the Lahti campus in Finland. The position is part of the LUT School of Energy Systems and focuses on understanding and modelling how heat waves and air pollution affect urban and suburban environments.

The research topic is highly relevant to resilient and liveable cities. The successful candidate will work on high-fidelity computational modelling of heat and mass transfer under extreme conditions, including the way the built environment can amplify heat and pollution impacts. Core activities include CFD modelling, building energy simulations, on-site measurement campaigns, analysis and validation of results, and publication of research findings.

The role also includes broader research responsibilities: contributing to funding proposals, supervising doctoral and master's students, collaborating with national and international partners, and participating in meetings, seminars, and conferences. Occasional travel may be involved. The post sits within a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and international environment, and the research team is looking for someone who is comfortable working in a growing and evolving academic setting.

Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field and have research experience and publications related to the built environment. Strong communication skills, independence, and the ability to work effectively in research teams are important. Essential technical experience includes developing or applying high-quality CFD simulations or building energy simulations. Experience with on-site micrometeorological measurement campaigns is an advantage. Excellent written and spoken English is required, while Finnish language skills are beneficial.

The appointment is initially for two years, including a six-month trial period, and may be extended by up to two additional years based on performance and progress. The expected start date is negotiable, but ideally before April 2027. The position follows the Finnish university working-time system of 1,612 annual hours and offers a hybrid work model with regular on-campus presence.

Funding is in the form of a salary according to the Finnish university pay system for teaching and research staff at requirement levels 5–6. The starting salary is approximately EUR 4,300–5,000 per month depending on qualifications and experience.

Applications must be submitted through the online recruitment system by 4 October 2026 at 23:59 Finnish local time. Applicants should upload a motivation letter, CV following the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity guidelines, doctoral degree certificate (with certified translation if needed), publication list, teaching merits summary, and contact details of two references.

For questions about the position, contact Professor Bert Blocken at [email protected].