Postdoctoral Researcher in Circular Chemistry and Green Hydrogen Electrocatalysis
The University of Jyväskylä, Department of Chemistry is seeking an interdisciplinary Postdoctoral Researcher for a 12-month fixed-term position related to a project in circular chemistry, recycled catalyst materials, green hydrogen electrocatalysis, and electrolyser development. Expected starting date is October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Main duties
During the first six months, the researcher will contribute to the project Circular Electrocatalysis for Green Hydrogen to Build Hybrid Electrolysis Ecosystems. The main duties include:
- Engaging industrial and academic partners
- Building national and international collaboration networks
- Mapping recyclable material streams for catalyst production
- Identifying industrial needs and suitable research cases
- Supporting workshops, partner meetings, and project communication.
During the following six months, the researcher will:
- Conduct preliminary experimental research
- Develop circular electrocatalysts for green hydrogen production
- Coordinate the preparation of a Business Finland Co-Research or Co-Innovation proposal
- Contribute to publications and follow-up funding applications.
The researcher will collaborate with academic experts and Finnish industrial partners in green hydrogen, electrocatalysis, circular chemistry, sustainability, and techno-economic assessment.
Who should apply
The successful candidate is expected to have:
- A doctoral degree in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, electrochemistry, or a related field
- Experience in electrocatalysis, hydrogen technologies, circular chemistry, recycling, pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, or functional materials
- Experience in preparing research proposals or participating in collaborative projects
- Strong written and spoken English skills
- Excellent communication, networking, and project coordination skills
- The ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary academic-industry teams.
Experience in catalyst synthesis and characterization, electrolyser testing, recycled materials, corrosion and durability studies, techno-economic or life-cycle assessment, scale-up, and industrial collaboration are required.
The duties, qualification requirements, and language skills of a postdoctoral researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before the starting date. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
What we offer
Come to Jyväskylä, Finland, and join our vibrant and inspiring community!
At the University of Jyväskylä, you will be a valued member of our community with a unique opportunity to contribute to international research. You will become part of our international and multidisciplinary community that prioritizes the wellbeing of each individual. Our lively campus provides excellent opportunities for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland, named the world’s happiest country for consecutive years since 2018, offers a high standard of living with free education (also in English), affordable childcare, generous family benefits, and comprehensive healthcare. Work–life balance is highly valued in Finland, and employees enjoy four to six weeks of annual holiday. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland, just three hours by train from the capital Helsinki. Part of the Finnish Lakeland, the city offers easy access to nature and a range of outdoor, sports and exercise activities. As a major centre of education with a large student population, it also features a vibrant cultural scene. For more information about the University of Jyväskylä, the city of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
Salaries are based on job demands and employees’ performance following the Finnish University Salary System. The salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 5–6 for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately 3600-4800 €/month (gross income), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. A holiday bonus is paid to all employees. If you are relocating from abroad, we will support your move to Jyväskylä and Finland.
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.
How to apply?
To apply, your ORCID profile (https://orcid.org) must be up to date and your publications must be visible to the public (Set visibility: Everyone).
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
- 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 informal cover letter / research plan (max 2 pages)
- A numbered list of all scientific publications and other publications showing the applicant's ability and merits for the position using the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland
- Degree certificate (PhD)
- Contact details of two referees.
We look forward to receiving your application in our recruitment system by September 30, 2026.
For further information, please contact Associate Professor Ali Davoodi, ali.a.davoodi@jyu.fi, Group: I3E Group: Electrochemistry.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants 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, the 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. We also have research groups that develop and apply density functional theory and other theoretical methods to understand and support experimental research related to hydrogen production and storage. 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-centred environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for us all. It is essential that each member of the community thrives and has opportunities to develop and grow. We cherish openness of thinking as well as the balance between research and education. Our naturally beautiful campus is located at the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
You cannot save your application as a draft. However, you have 6 hours to complete the application before the time limit expires. Once you have submitted your application, you can make changes at any time before the deadline using the link we will send to your email.
