Postdoctoral Researcher in Space Physics, Faculty of Science

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.  

We are now looking for

a Postdoctoral Researcher

to join us in the Space Physics and Astronomy Research Unit (SPA RU) at the Faculty of Science. The SPA RU includes two Space Physics research groups, Ionospheric Physics and Space Climate, and the Astronomy research group. The unit performs top-level research in the fields of heliospheric, magnetospheric, and ionospheric physics, cosmic rays and atmospheric effects, and planetary sciences. This position is open in the Space Climate research group led by Prof. Ilya Usoskin. The successful applicant will work in a compact, active, dynamic, and highly international research group.

About the job

The position will be filled in the framework of a highly prestigious, large-scale ERC Synergy research grant GERACLE, which will focus on the effects of geomagnetic reversals and excursions on Earth’s environment. The successful applicant will perform research in magnetospheric modelling and radiation environment.

The duties will include:

• You will be an active member of a multidisciplinary research group working on cutting-edge research in the framework of the GERACLE project.
• You will perform MHD magnetospheric modelling, considering the solar-wind coupling for different non-standard scenarios, including geomagnetic excursions and extreme geomagnetic storms.
• Starting from the use of existing models (BATS-R-US, GAMERA, etc.), you will adapt and develop them for non-standard scenarios. The entire magnetospheric structure will be modelled, including radiation belt formation and induced currents.
• You will closely collaborate with other group members working on the radiation environment and climate modelling.
• You are expected to write and publish scientific peer-reviewed articles in high-level journals and present the results at scientific conferences.
• A (co)supervision of a doctoral student within the group is likely. 

What do we offer?

• The support of a highly experienced and enthusiastic top-level research team of about 20 people, where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Full social benefits, including pension and social welfare, as well as work-related health insurance, will be provided. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options in a big research and higher education organisation.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu. 

Who are you?

We expect from you: 

• A doctoral degree or equivalent in Space Physics, Geosciences or another field directly relevant to the Project. The degree must be obtained before the start of the contract, but no more than 10 years ago.
• Ability to work independently and in a team, including scientific writing.
• Basic knowledge of magnetospheric physics, solar wind and energetic particles.
• Proficient knowledge of written and spoken English.

We also appreciate:

• Hands-on experience with magnetospheric MHD models (BATS-R-US, GAMERA, etc.).
• Experience in numerical modelling, knowledge of programming languages.
• Good communication skills. 

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 4 years starting on 1.9.2025 or soon thereafter. A six month trial period will be applied to the position. The work will be performed in person in the Linnanmaa campus of the University of Oulu.

The salary will be based on levels 5-6 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be 3600-4000 € per month (before taxes).  

The paid annual holiday covers 24—38 working days per year, depending on the work experience.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 15.6.2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. Cover letter (max 2 pages), including a description of your experience related to the position.
2. CV (max 3 pages), following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland. 
4. Copies of relevant Certificates/Diplomas.
5. Contact information of two professional references. Please indicate how they relate to you (e.g., scientific advisor, colleague, remote collaborator).

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders, and members of different languages, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Ilya Usoskin (email: ilya.usoskin[АТ]oulu.fi)