Project Researcher (PhD. Student), Energy Technology (combustion engine modelling and simulation)

The position is offered initially for 1 year with a starting date at the beginning of March/April 2021 or as agreed. The position is located in the School of Technology and Innovation with close co-operation with the VEBIC Research Platform.

Your role

You will be part of an international team working in multiple challenging projects, at the forefront of research and development of novel combustion engine technologies. The focus is on model-based development of advanced engine solutions supporting our industrial partners in conforming to straightening emissions and noise regulation in marine and off-road sectors. Our goal is to have an ultra-efficient, large-bore gas engine meeting restrictive China II/Stage V emission norms demonstrated in a relevant environment by 2024. We realize this goal by heavily relying on model-based hardware and control development verified on the state of the art experimental facilities. To this end, we are seeking for motivated researchers (several positions) with experience of at least one of the listed fields:

• 1D engine and after treatment modelling and simulation
• Control-oriented combustion/in-cylinder model development
• Engine noise simulation 
• 1D/3D Turbocharger modelling – noise oriented

You will also be supporting the development of new project proposals in your field attracting new funding opportunities. 

All tasks are agreed in more detail in the Annual Work Plan. The annual working time for the Project Researcher (PhD Student) is 1612 hours. 

Requirements

• You have a master’s degree or a PhD in a relevant field.  For example mechanical engineering, with a specialization in combustion engines. 
• You can utilize, develop and (or) integrate different modelling and simulation tools. Therefore, extensive familiarity with environments such as MATLAB/Simulink, GT-Power, C/C++ etc. is highly desired. Experience in CFD simulation environments can be a benefit.
• In addition to the toolchain experience, you should have basic knowledge of control or some practical experience with combustion engine tests. 
• Very good analytical skills in addition to good academic writing skills are highly advantageous for your candidature. A proven track record in relevant projects and high-quality journals/conferences/projects, on the topics related to the position, is an additional advantage. 
• You enjoy developing innovative solutions to technically challenging problems and have the right mix of intellectual curiosity and practical pragmatism. 
• You have good communication skills, and enjoy working both independently and as part of a team. You are open to sharing your knowledge with colleagues and ambitious to develop yourself as a researcher.

To be eligible for a full PhD student position, the candidate is required to participate in a separate application process which is arranged twice a year in order to be admitted and enrolled as a doctoral student at the University of Vaasa. For more information about eligibility and the application process, please visit the Graduate School's website: https://www.univaasa.fi/en/research/researcher/graduate_school/.

Fluent written and spoken English language skills are mandatory in the position.

Inspirational work environment

The position is situated in the School of Technology and Innovations within the team of Energy Technology. 

Energy technology is an innovative team, focused on modern technology that has a high level of significance in international business operations. We need open-minded, creative and skilled individuals to explore and develop the future energy solutions, decentralised electrical energy distribution systems, smart electricity grids, flexible hybrid energy production, modern fuel combustion engine technology and related bio fuels, energy storages and power electronics. We continuously develop all of our operations in cooperation with companies and other partners. We are strongly networked and responsible actors in research, education and public relations. As a work community, our team is diverse, international and encouraging. The cooperation and support of colleagues promotes well-being and inspires working. More information about the School and the team: https://www.univaasa.fi/en/about/organisation/schools/technology-and-innovations/

Our team works in close co-operation with VEBIC Research Platform. At the University of Vaasa, we conduct combustion engine research focused on advanced energy concepts and alternative fuels. We have a special focus on large bore-marine and stationary engines, for which we have unique, state of the art, research facilities at Vaasa Energy Business Innovation Centre (VEBIC). In close collaboration with industry, we are transforming the energy sector by bringing cutting-edge technology to real-world application. We welcome you to join one of the most fascinating energy innovation centres in the Nordic region as a Project researcher in combustion modelling and control. For more information about the facilities see: www.vebic.fi .

We offer

We have a great value to both your personal and your professional development. Many opportunities exist for you to develop: conferences, courses, workshops, coaching, mentoring and international internships. 

The salary will be based on both the job requirement and the employee’s personal performance in accordance with the Finnish University Salary System. The monthly salary of a Project Researcher (PhD Student) is based on job demand levels 2-4 (€ 2,055-2,563). An additional personal salary component is paid based on work performance.

How to apply 

To apply for this position, please use our online application system (https://www.univaasa.fi/en/open-positions). The application, including appendices, has to be submitted to our online application database no later than 23rd February 2021. 

The application should include the following annexes: 

• CV - use of CV template is required, please see instructions: https://www.univaasa.fi/en/open-positions/application-attachments 
•  Single-page cover letter describing your motivation for this topic of research
• Transcript of study records in a PDF format

Further Information

Further information about the position:

• Associate Professor Maciej Mikulski, phone. +358 29 449 8591 
• Dean Harry Linnarinne, phone. +358 29 449 8705
• email: firstname.surname (at) univaasa.fi

Inquiries about the online application system: careers@univaasa.fi .

The employment is subject to a probationary period.