Do you want to build expertise in one of the most rapidly evolving fields of the clean energy transition? We are looking for two doctoral researchers to join LUT University's internationally recognised hydrogen research team and contribute to the development of renewable hydrogen production technologies for future energy systems.

The Department of Electrical Engineering is hiring two doctoral researchers for a Research Council of Finland-funded project focusing on optimising the energy efficiency of high-voltage alkaline water electrolysis stacks powered by solar and wind energy. The positions are part of LUT's internationally recognised hydrogen research activities, which combine expertise in renewable energy systems, electrolysis technologies, modelling, optimisation, artificial intelligence, and fluid dynamics.

LUT's hydrogen research team has more than ten years of experience in renewable electricity-based green hydrogen production. The team studies water electrolyser systems from a multidisciplinary perspective and collaborates closely with industry and leading universities in Finland and abroad. Its research has also contributed to the creation of several successful spin-off companies, including Solar Foods, Elstor, and Neovolt.

What your work will be like

In these positions, you will join LUT's hydrogen research group and contribute to the development of more energy-efficient alkaline water electrolysis technologies for renewable hydrogen production. Green hydrogen is expected to play a key role in the transition towards carbon-neutral energy systems, creating a growing need for efficient and scalable production technologies.

As a doctoral researcher, you will conduct high-level scientific research as part of a multidisciplinary team and complete an article-based doctoral dissertation in English within four years. You will participate in research projects and contribute to scientific publications.

Position 1: Modelling and AI-assisted optimisation of electrolysis systems

In this position, you will further develop existing electrolysis system models and integrate them with AI-assisted optimisation methods. Your research will focus on modelling, simulation, optimisation, and data-driven approaches to improve system performance under varying renewable energy conditions. You will also apply artificial intelligence to next-generation hydrogen production technologies.

Position 2: Fluid dynamics and optimisation of electrolysis systems

In this position, you will contribute to the development and optimisation of alkaline water electrolysis technologies from the perspective of fluid dynamics. Your work will utilise fluid mechanics expertise to improve system performance and energy efficiency, supporting the wider deployment of renewable hydrogen technologies.

The roles may also include teaching-related tasks and other duties supporting the activities of the research group.

What we expect from you

We are seeking candidates who are curious, aspire to an academic career, are committed to continuous learning, and want to contribute to scientific advances supporting the clean energy transition.

You have a university master's degree (MSc or equivalent) in a field relevant to the position. Suitable backgrounds include electrical engineering, information technology, computer engineering, applied physics, applied mathematics, mechanical engineering, energy technology, fluid dynamics, or related disciplines.

Position 1 requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills along with an interest in modelling, simulation, and the application of artificial intelligence to energy technologies. For Position 2, we expect a solid foundation in fluid mechanics, while experience in fluid dynamics-based optimisation is considered an asset.

You will be required to apply to the LUT Doctoral School for the right to complete doctoral studies within the first two months of the appointment.

In addition, you must be committed to completing your doctoral studies within the normative timeframe. Good written and spoken English skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international research environment, and enthusiasm for scientific research are essential.

What we offer

We offer an excellent opportunity to launch a successful academic career in a highly topical research area supporting the global energy transition. You will become part of an internationally recognised hydrogen research team and work on scientifically and societally significant challenges together with experienced researchers and industrial partners.

You will receive supportive supervision throughout your doctoral studies. The positions provide a stimulating research environment where you can develop into a highly valued expert in your field.

The position will start with a one-year term (including a six-month trial period) and may be extended by up to three years, depending on the progress of your studies and research.

The work starts as soon as possible, although the start date is negotiable. The jobs are based in Lappeenranta. LUT offers a hybrid work model that combines flexibility with regular on-campus presence. The hours are flexible, supporting work–life balance. In accordance with the collective agreement for Finnish universities, the position follows a system of 1,612 annual working hours.

The salary is set according to the Finnish university pay system’s scale for teaching and research staff (requirement level 2). The starting salary is approximately EUR 3,100 per month, depending on experience and qualifications.

If you are interested in contributing to key technologies and solutions for addressing the climate crisis, leave your application and join our internationally recognised hydrogen research team.

Interested? The application deadline is 12 October 2026 at 23:59 (Finnish local time, UTC+3). Fill out the online application form and attach the following documents in English and in PDF format:

• Motivation letter (one page) highlighting your research skills relevant to the position and describing why you are interested in and suitable for the position
• Curriculum vitae (CV) following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
• Copies of your original bachelor’s and master’s degree certificates and transcripts of records. If the original documents are not in English, Finnish, or Swedish, official certified translations are required
• A research statement describing the dissertation project, work in progress, plans for publication, and academic goals (maximum 4 pages)
• If you have prior publications, teaching qualification certificates or a teaching portfolio (maximum 10 pages), please include them, but they are not obligatory. 

Please also indicate which of the two topics interests you most. Submit your application well before the deadline to allow time for uploading all attachments. Also, make sure you submit only one application.

Only applications that are submitted through the online recruitment system and include the required documents will be considered. We will review applications on a rolling basis, and the positions will be filled once suitable candidates are found.

For more information about the position, please contact Professor Jero Ahola, jero.ahola@lut.fi, or Assiociate Professor (non-tenure track) Vesa Ruuskanen, vesa.ruuskanen@lut.fi.

Read more about LUT as an employer and the LUT Doctoral School.   

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LUT University | LUT University seeks solutions to global issues with its expertise in technology, business, and social sciences. LUT is a trailblazer in promoting the energy transition and the regenerative use of natural resources and helps build resilient communities, industry, and businesses through data, research, and education. LUT's campuses are in Lappeenranta and Lahti, Finland, but its impact is global. Lut.fi/en

Technical support for using the recruitment system: recruitment@lut.fi.