Call for open Doctoral Researcher position

The Process Metallurgy Research Unit of the University of Oulu's Faculty of Technology is looking for a PhD researcher in the new project EcoLIB, funded by Interreg Aurora programme.

Job Description:

The Process Metallurgy Research Unit of the University of Oulu's Faculty of Technology is looking for a PhD researcher in the new project EcoLIB, funded by Interreg Aurora programme. EcoLIB is a collaborative multidiscipline project aiming to develop an innovative sustainable, cost effective, and eco-friendly solution for spent Li-ion batteries (LIBs) recycling.

The doctoral researcher will carry out research on developing innovative methods for recovery valuable critical metals (e.g. Co, Ni, Li, Mn) from active cathode materials by using microwaves radiation for roasting and reduction. In addition, an innovative microwave pre-treatment method for the cells from spent LIBs will be developed. Pre-treatment will result in passivating the battery cell, and recovery of electrolyte, binder and other volatiles. You will disseminate research results through scientific publications, conference presentations, and project deliverables.

Process Metallurgy Unit has very close co-operation with metallurgical industry as well as research institutes and universities in Finland and Europe as form of joint projects and researcher exchange. The improvements in material and energy efficiencies of metallurgical processes are key topics aiming towards minimized specific emissions. More information on the activities of the unit are available at https://www.oulu.fi/en/university/faculties-and-units/faculty-technology/process-metallurgy



Qualification requirements:

He/she must have Master’s degree in process metallurgy, process or material engineering (or equivalent degree). It would be good for the applicant to have an educational background in process metallurgy or chemistry. In addition, we appreciate the following:

  • Experience in conducting laboratory experiments and sample preparation in general,
  • Excellent skills in spoken and written English are required,
  • Ability to pursue both independent and collaborative research,
  • Experience on using microwave for material treatment and dielectric properties measurement is considered an advantage.
  • Previous experience on any of these characterization techniques (e.g., SEM-EDS, TEM, FTIR, XPS etc.),

How to apply:

Applications are asked to be sent by email to Adj. Professor Mamdouh Omran: mamdouh.omran@oulu.fi, and Professor Timo Fabritius: timo.fabritius@oulu.fi

Please include the following attachments in PDF format:

  1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) summarizing the applicant’s professional experience and expertise.

  2. Curriculum vitae in accordance with the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity http://www.tenk.fi/en/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae, including a list of publications (if available).

  3. Certificates/diplomas: scanned copies of the original Master’s and Bachelor’s degree certificates and transcripts of records.

  4. A copy from your Master thesis.

Position for a doctoral student is aiming to as soon as possible for example starting at 01.03.2023.

The deadline for applications is 15.01.2023.

For further information about the position, please contact:

Mamdouh Omran, Process Metallurgy Research Unit, University of Oulu, P.O. Box 4300, FI-90014 University of Oulu, Finland, email: mamdouh.omran(at)oulu.fi

Last updated: 16.12.2022