Postdoctoral Researcher, fracture mechanical properties of welded structures for hydrogen applications University of Oulu in Finland

The University of Oulu in Finland is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher for a project on the fracture mechanical properties of welded structures for hydrogen applications. The role is based in the Materials and Mechanical Engineering (MME) research unit at the Faculty of Technology, a research environment focused on the physical metallurgy of high-strength steels and engineering solutions for modern, sustainable structures and machinery.

This position is part of the MatH2 project, an industry–academia collaboration aimed at developing materials, components, and technologies that can withstand hydrogen and other chemical compounds important for a hydrogen economy. The project involves ten companies and two research partners, and the postdoc will contribute to work on the structural integrity of welded steel pipelines for hydrogen transport, especially under Nordic conditions.

The research focus is highly experimental and centred on fracture mechanics, hydrogen embrittlement resistance, and the toughness of critical microstructural zones in weldments. The successful candidate will perform mechanical testing, advanced microstructural characterization, and structure–property analysis of welded pipeline steels under hydrogen-relevant conditions. The outcomes are expected to support materials performance data, integrity assessment methods, and design guidelines for safe and reliable hydrogen infrastructure.

Key responsibilities include conducting original research, designing and executing experimental studies, working with interdisciplinary academic and industry teams, contributing to project reporting and dissemination, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. The role is well suited to candidates with a strong background in steels, welds, fracture toughness, fatigue, and related modelling or testing methods.

Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant area such as Materials Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Structural Engineering, awarded within the last ten years. Strong English communication skills, independence, teamwork, and a track record of scientific writing are expected. Desirable strengths include hands-on experience with mechanical testing, publication activity, competitive funding success, and modelling experience.

The appointment is full time and fixed term for 2.5 years, starting on 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The starting gross salary is approximately €3,800–€4,400 per month before taxes, with an additional personal performance component. Applications must be submitted by 23 August 2026 through the university recruitment system.

Contact persons are Sakari Pallaspuro and Jukka Ilmari Kömi at the University of Oulu.