Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Electrocatalysis and Software Development (2 positions) University of Jyväskylä in Finland

The University of Jyväskylä's Department of Chemistry is offering two fixed-term Postdoctoral Researcher positions in a project focused on computational method development and electrocatalysis, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The positions begin on 1 April 2026 and run until 31 December 2028. The project aims to advance computational methodologies and deepen the understanding of alcohol electro-oxidation reactions on transition metal catalysts, which are relevant to sustainable energy technologies. Researchers will leverage the LUMI supercomputer for large-scale simulations of complex electrochemical reactions under realistic conditions.

Position 1 centers on software development, specifically the creation of GPU-accelerated GPAW software based on density functional theory (DFT) for constant-potential calculations within a plane-wave framework. The software will be tested and validated for electrochemical systems, involving computational method development, scientific software engineering, and high-performance computing.

Position 2 focuses on computational electrocatalysis, investigating reaction mechanisms at electrochemical metal–water interfaces. The research emphasizes the influence of solvent, applied potential, and cations on alcohol electro-oxidation reactions on transition metal catalysts, aiming to clarify structure–activity relationships and mechanistic factors governing catalytic performance at the atomic scale.

Both postdoctoral researchers will collaborate closely with each other, experimental partners, and the GPAW development team. The positions are embedded in an active computational chemistry environment with access to national and European high-performance computing infrastructure. The Department of Chemistry is internationally recognized for high-quality research and teaching, offering comprehensive, research-based chemistry education and modern infrastructure, including NMR, mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, ICP analytics, and laser laboratories. The Nanoscience Center provides advanced facilities for nanofabrication and characterization.

Applicants must hold or be about to obtain a doctoral degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a closely related field, with the degree completed before employment begins. Position 1 requires experience in computational method development and/or scientific software development, while Position 2 requires experience in computational electrocatalysis or modeling of electrochemical systems. Excellent written and oral English skills are expected. The University of Jyväskylä offers a vibrant, international research community, excellent working conditions, and support for relocation, including a settling-in allowance. The salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is approximately 3600-4800 €/month (gross), depending on qualifications and experience.

Applications must be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by March 18, 2026. Required documents include a CV, motivation/cover letter, publication list, and degree certificate, all in English and PDF format. An ORCID profile with public publications is mandatory. Applications sent via email will not be considered. For further information, contact Professor Karoliina Honkala ([email protected]).

The University of Jyväskylä is committed to fairness, transparency, and diversity in recruitment, and supports the HR Excellence in Research principles. The campus is located in the heart of Jyväskylä, offering a high standard of living, free schooling, affordable childcare, and excellent opportunities for outdoor and cultural activities.