Doctoral Researcher, In-situ and Operando Spectroscopy and Scattering Techniques for Oxygen Evolution Reaction Mechanism Studies, Faculty of Science

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Faculty of Science, Nano and Molecular Systems

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 4000 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 19,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations. The University of Oulu is ranked in the top 3% of the world’s universities.

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

to join us in the Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit at the Faculty of Science.

About the job

The doctoral researcher will join an interdisciplinary research project focused on understanding the reaction mechanisms of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) using advanced in-situ and operando spectroscopy and scattering techniques. The project combines electrochemistry, materials science, spectroscopy, synchrotron radiation, and computational data analysis to reveal the structural, electronic, and chemical evolution of electrocatalysts under realistic operating conditions.

The research will involve the design and development of advanced electrochemical cells compatible with laboratory- and synchrotron-based characterization techniques. The successful candidate will work closely with collaborators and participate in experimental studies at leading synchrotron radiation facilities.

As a Doctoral Researcher, you will:

• Design, develop, and optimize in-situ and operando electrochemical cells for spectroscopy and scattering experiments.
• Assemble, commission, and maintain experimental setups for advanced electrochemical and spectroscopic measurements.
• Carry out in-situ and operando Raman spectroscopy to monitor catalyst phase evolution, surface intermediates, and reaction pathways during oxygen evolution.
• Perform in-situ/operando synchrotron-based experimental studies employing advanced operando characterization techniques, including X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-energy X-ray diffraction (HEXRD), total scattering, and other complementary spectroscopy and scattering methods.
• Process, analyze, and interpret multimodal datasets obtained from Raman spectroscopy, XRD, XPS, XAS, and electrochemical experiments to establish structure–property–performance relationships.
• Develop computational workflows and automated data-processing pipelines using Python, MATLAB, and other scientific software for handling large laboratory and synchrotron datasets.
• Perform quantitative spectral fitting, kinetic analysis, multivariate statistical analysis, visualization, and data integration to correlate catalyst structure, oxidation state, and reaction kinetics under operating conditions.
• Present research findings at national/international conferences and publish results in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Contribute to the supervision of Bachelor's and Master's students and participate in teaching activities within the research unit.

What we offer

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in advanced operando spectroscopy and scattering techniques, electrochemistry, synchrotron radiation experiments, scientific programming, and multimodal data analysis. The project provides access to state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation and leading international synchrotron facilities, offering opportunities to collaborate with internationally recognized researchers and contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable energy materials. The doctoral researcher will develop expertise spanning experimental design, advanced characterization, computational data analysis, and mechanistic understanding of electrocatalytic reactions, providing an excellent foundation for a future career in academia, national laboratories, or industry.

• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

• An MSc degree in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong interest in electrocatalysis, renewable energy technologies, and advanced materials characterization.
• Experience with one or more experimental techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), electron microscopy, or electrochemical characterization is a plus.
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similar programming languages.
• Knowledge of spectral processing, curve fitting, statistical analysis, scientific visualization, and handling large experimental datasets is considered plus.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and the capability to work both independently and as part of an international multidisciplinary research team.
• Willingness to travel and participate in experimental campaigns at synchrotron radiation facilities.
• You must apply for the right to study for a doctoral degree at the beginning of your employment in accordance with the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS).

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years as of 1.10.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-3200 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 11.9.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

• Cover letter
• CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
• Narrative CV, using the given template (more information: principles for the assessment of research and researchers at the University of Oulu)

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. The shortlisted candidates will also be asked to submit their diplomas, and their references will be contacted. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including people of different ages, genders, languages, cultures, and minority communities.

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact

Dr. Ekta Rani, Faculty of Science, Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit, ekta.rani@oulu.fi

Dr. Samuli Urpelainen, Faculty of Science, Nano and Molecular Systems Research Unit, samuli.urpelainen@oulu.fi

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