Doctoral researcher / project researcher (or MSc. thesis worker) in the field of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of high-fidelity hydrogen combustion

The University of Turku is a world-class multidisciplinary research university, hosting a vibrant community of 25,000 students and employees from over 100 different countries. As one of the leading universities in Finland, University of Turku offers study and research opportunities in eight faculties. The Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering in the Faculty of Technology brings together experts from a wide range of disciplines including mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics and mathematics, as well as computer science, to develop solutions for future technologies and key societal challenges. 

We are looking for a project researcher/doctoral researcher in the field of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of high-fidelity hydrogen combustion simulation applicable to novel engine concepts to join the research group of associate professor Armin Wehrfritz in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering. The task is fixed-term and the starting time of the position is 1.9.2025 or as soon as possible according to mutual agreement. The duration of the contract will be 2 years  from the starting date, with the possibility of extension.  

Job description

The position is within a collaborative project funded by the Research Council of Finland.   

The topic of the advertised position is primarily focused on gaining a fundamental understanding of the fuel injection, mixture formation and combustion process in engines operated on the argon power cycle. The candidate will use state-of-the-art simulation techniques, namely large-eddy simulation (LES) and direct numerical simulation (DNS), to study fluid dynamics, heat transfer and chemical kinetics in canonical and practically relevant configurations. Data-driven and machine learning methods will further be used to analyse the data and to create faster models for combustion simulations.

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Who we are looking for

Requirements 

Successful candidates for the doctoral researcher/project researcher position should have an MSc degree in mechanical/aerospace engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field. Previous experience in computational simulation or computational fluid dynamics is considered highly beneficial. However, the candidate will have the opportunity to take advanced, doctoral-level courses to gain further knowledge and expertise in computational fluid dynamics of chemically reacting flows.      

The following skills are essential for a successful completion of the project:     

  • Solid understanding of fluid mechanics and basic knowledge in CFD  
  • Knowledge of numerical methods in engineering, physics and mathematics   
  • Python, Matlab, C++, Fortran or other relevant programming languages   
  • Ability to work with complex numerical simulation software packages  
  • Excellent academic track record  
  • Excellent presentation skills  

Additional skills considered beneficial for the work are:  

  • Experience with data-driven analysis and machine learning methods  
  • Experience with OpenFOAM and mesh generation tools  

The qualification requirements of the positions are stated in the University of Turku rules of Procedure. A person selected for the post of doctoral researcher/project researcher is required to have a higher university degree. In addition, when acquiring their degree or otherwise, a doctoral researcher is required to have demonstrated the ability and motivation to undertake postgraduate studies and the capacity to complete a doctoral degree in accordance with the research plan. In this position, you will apply the study right for doctoral studies (in Autumn 2025 or latest Spring 2026) in University of Turku. Thus, please check the student information and application criteria here: https://www.utu.fi/en/research/utugs.

In particular, please pay attention to mandatory skill level in English. Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are required. 

Candidates who will graduate soon (master students) are also encouraged to apply, who would be hired as a research assistant with the possibility to write their MSc thesis as part of the project. You have to meet the application criteria to apply for doctoral study rights later (at the latest for the Spring 2026 call, see what is listed above for doctoral candidates, e.g. mandatory English skill level). The successful candidate is interested and willing to continue as a doctoral researcher as soon as they meet the formal criteria. The duration of the research assistant contract is 6 months. If the relevant degree is obtained within these 6 months, the employment contract will be upgraded to the correct title with the appropriate change in salary.   

We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Benefits

We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.

Please read more about University of Turku as an employee from our Come work with us! pages.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers. 

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:

The University of Turku is among the top of the world’s universities in most rankings and among the best universities in the world in certain fields. Our high-quality basic research, a multidisciplinary research profile and close cooperation in research infrastructures creates the basis for international top research. Read more about University of Turku in international university rankings.

The University of Turku has several high-quality research infrastructures required for cutting-edge research. Learn more about the roadmap of research infrastructures and how the research infrastructure and expert teams offer tailored solutions for businesses and organizations.

Salary and trial period

The salaries are determined in accordance with the university salary system for teaching and research personnel. For a doctoral researcher / project researcher, the salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience based on the University salary system and will in the beginning of the employment be approximately 2400–2600 €/month. If a research assistant is hired for the position, the salary will be approximately 2200–2300 €/month.  

There is a trial period of six (6) months for the doctoral researcher/project researcher and a three (3) month trial period for the research assistant.

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 21 August 2025 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki).

Applications should include: 

  • CV
  • a publication list
  • degree diplomas 
  • transcripts of records
  • motivation letter.

Please provide also the names and contact details of two professional references on your motivation letter. In your application, you can tell more details about your studies, future study plans and suitability for the research project. 

Further information

For further information about the position, please contact: Associate Professor Armin Wehrfritz (armin.wehrfritz@utu.fi).

With questions about the application process, please contact: HR Specialist Sarian Kotka (sjkkot@utu.fi), available from 31 July.

Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering

Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering is a unique combination of mechanical engineering, materials engineering and industrial engineering and management with contemporary research and teaching. Our vision is to create trends. We take the needs of the community, business, society and the environment into account when actively guiding our activities in teaching, research and collaboration.

The Faculty of Technology is the newest faculty of the University of Turku, it was established in the beginning of 2021. The Faculty consists of the Department of Computing, Department of Biotechnology and the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering. We have more than 2,000 graduate and postgraduate students and circa 400 employees, 50 of whom are professors. Our faculty is an international, multicultural and diverse work community.

The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.

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Doctoral researcher / project researcher (or MSc. thesis worker) in the field of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of high-fidelity hydrogen combustion

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