Junior researcher (doctoral student) in modelling and digitalisation of biomass-to-X systems

The LUT School of Energy Systems is looking for a junior researcher (doctoral student) in energy process modelling related to biomass-to-X conversion systems. The position is located at the Laboratory of Thermal Engineering at the Department of Energy Technology.

Research at the Laboratory of Thermal Engineering involves energy system modelling and multiphase reactive processes – particularly the modelling of fluidised bed applications. The job focuses on novel biomass-to-X conversion processes, real-time process analyses, and the development of digital twins to produce carbon-neutral and carbon-negative bio-products and biofuels. The aim is to establish numerical modelling tools for advanced biomass-to-X processes, including process digitalisation, machine learning algorithms, and AI-driven optimisation routines. Both unit operations and coupled processes will be investigated. Previous experience in and knowledge of energy process modelling – in particular, experience in the use of numerical process modelling tools – are to the applicant’s advantage. 

Job description

• Research related to the real-time modelling of biomass-to-X conversion systems
• Completion of the doctoral degree within four years
  • A doctoral dissertation typically includes four peer-reviewed publications and a summarising report on the research work
  • Complementary studies 30 ECTS credits

What we expect

Applicants must have a master’s degree or the equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., energy, thermal, or process engineering), the ability and motivation to complete the doctoral studies within the normative duration of the studies for the degree, and a right to complete doctoral studies at LUT University. Junior researchers need to obtain the right to complete doctoral studies at LUT within the first three months of their employment relationship.

What we offer

In addition to a competitive salary, the wide range of benefits that come with the job include a holiday bonus, generous annual leave, a research incentive scheme with personal rewards for high-quality publications, flexible working hours, occupational health care, a collegial working environment, and continued commitment to your support, learning, training, and development.

Employment relationship and salary

The work takes place on LUT University’s Lappeenranta campus and will start as soon as possible. The work will start with a one-year term that can be extended by three years, provided that the studies and research have progressed satisfactorily.  

The salary is based on the current collective agreement for Finnish universities. The typical gross annual starting salary for a junior researcher is approximately 32 500 euros a year. The salary includes a personal performance-based element. Junior researchers who meet certain publishing criteria are also eligible for publication bonuses.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is 15 October 2024 at midnight, Finnish local time (UTC +3h). Please fill out the online application form and attach the following documents in English and in PDF format: 

• Your CV
• A motivation letter: a separate document describing your motivation for this researcher position, highlighting past achievements (max. 1 page, A4)
• A copy of your academic degree certificate and transcript of records; if the original documents are not in English, Finnish or Swedish, each document must be accompanied by an official certified translation into English or Finnish

Only applications submitted through the university’s online application system will be considered. 

More Information

Jouni Ritvanen, associate professor (tenure track), email: firstname.lastname@lut.fi.

Read more about LUT as an employer.

Read more about the information for international staff. 

Read more about LUT Doctoral School.  

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