Doctoral Researcher in Electrocatalysis and Green Hydrogen
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Jyväskylä invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher in Electrocatalysis and Green Hydrogen, starting March 2, 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The fixed-term position is 3,5 years and supports for completing doctoral studies.
The position is part of JYU’s strategic initiative on New Technologies, Circular Economy, and Mobility Ecosystems, advancing the green transition and hydrogen economy. The successful candidate will join Associate Professor Ali Davoodi’s research group in cooperation with other faculty members, focusing on electrocatalytic processes, hydrogen production, biomass valorization, and sustainable materials for clean energy.
Research Focus
The doctoral project targets next-generation hydrogen technologies, including:
- Development of electrocatalysts for green hydrogen production
- Electrochemical methods to improve hydrogen generation efficiency
- Sustainable and circular approaches to catalytic materials and biomass valorization
- Experimental work integrating synthesis, electrochemistry, materials characterization, and green-energy applications
The project is embedded in a growing research ecosystem at JYU, linking hydrogen production, materials development, and circular economy concepts, with strong national and international collaborations.
Main tasks
- Conduct research leading to a doctoral thesis
- Complete required doctoral coursework
- Participate in group and departmental activities
- Contribute to teaching or supervision as appropriate
Who we are looking for
The selected candidate is expected to have the following qualifications:
- Completed or near-completed (about to obtain) Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
- Research experience in at least one area: electrocatalysis, electrochemistry, materials synthesis, or sustainable/energy-related chemistry
- Strong experimental skills, interest in hydrogen technologies, and teamwork/communication skills
- Proficiency in English
The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science.
Benefits
At the Department of Chemistry at the University of Jyväskylä, we offer you
- Modern laboratories for synthesis, electrochemistry, and materials characterization
- A multidisciplinary research environment linked to Finland’s hydrogen initiatives
- Opportunities for collaboration, training, and international networking
At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2500 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.
How to apply?
Please, submit the application in English (PDF format) via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by January 25, 2026. Email applications will not be considered. Required documents are:
- A Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
- A short and free-form motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including your research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
- Relevant degree certificate or proof of expected graduation.
For further information, please contact Associate Professor Ali Davoodi, ali.a.davoodi@jyu.fi.
We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARA principles.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
Department of Chemistry
The Department of Chemistry is internationally renowned for its high-quality research and teaching. We offer comprehensive, research-based chemistry education that crosses traditional subject boundaries and fosters a strong sense of community. Our teaching is being modernized through careful, collaborative efforts. The department’s key research areas include functional molecules and materials, chemical nanoscience, circular economy, and chemistry education. The department provides access to up-to-date chemistry infrastructure, including NMR, mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, ICP analytics, and laser laboratories. Additionally, a hydrometallurgical process equipment provides a platform for investigation of industrial chemical recovery processes. Nanoscience Center offers high-quality infrastructure for nanofabrication and characterization. With a broad range of advanced tools, equipment and infrastructure, we support high-level international research collaborations and diverse teaching opportunities. Central to our approach is close cooperation within the department, faculty and with external partners, as demonstrated by the shared use of research facilities. We value in-depth fundamental research and the development of innovative applications built upon it. With a community of around 130 people, we have a significant proportion of international staff, enriching our work with diverse expertise and perspectives.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, you have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout. After submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.
