Postdoctoral Researcher to work on the ERC Starting Grant project NewGenH2Steel University of Oulu in Finland

The University of Oulu is offering a fixed-term, 3-year postdoctoral researcher position in the Materials and Mechanical Engineering Research Unit, within the ERC Starting Grant project NewGenH2Steel.

The project focuses on the fundamental physics of fatigue crack growth in multiphase metastable next-generation steels. The successful candidate will work with advanced multiscale characterization methods, combining in situ micromechanics and nanomechanics with high-energy synchrotron radiation and X-ray computed tomography (SR-μCT) to study defect interactions and non-propagating cracks in real time.

The role is based in the Steel Fatigue Research Group at the University of Oulu and offers close interaction with doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, other university groups, and international collaborators. The research environment is strongly oriented toward physical and mechanical metallurgy, advanced high-strength steels, and sustainable engineering solutions for carbon-neutral society.

Key tasks include in situ cyclic loading and fatigue testing in SEM and TEM, synchrotron X-ray tomography and diffraction, analysis of crack-tip opening displacement and crack closure, study of interactions between small cracks and microstructural barriers, and advanced data processing using digital volume correlation, segmentation, and related image-analysis tools. Experience with Abaqus, COMSOL Multiphysics, crystal plasticity, and related modeling approaches is especially relevant.

The position is open to applicants with a doctoral degree in a relevant field such as Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline. The degree must have been completed within the last 10 years. Strong programming and image-processing skills, excellent English communication, and the ability to work independently and in teams are important. Experience with synchrotron facilities, experimental fatigue, advanced characterization, CALPHAD, phase-field simulation, and finite element methods is a strong advantage.

The position offers a gross monthly salary of approximately €3950-4400 before taxes, plus a personal performance-based component. The appointment starts on 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter, with a 6-month trial period.

Apply via the University of Oulu recruitment system by 31 July 2026 at 23:59 Finnish local time. The application must be written in English and include a motivation letter, CV, list of publications, research plan, and contact details for two referees. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview and asked to provide diplomas and references.