Doctoral researcher in energy systems studies (2 positions)

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Doctoral Researchers (2 positions)

interested in energy system studies, with a focus on challenges of decarbonization from environmental and business perspectives. The positions are available at the Martti Ahtisaari Institute (MAI) at the Oulu Business School (OBS), and the Water, Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Unit (WE3) at the Faculty of Technology (TTK). Both positions are fully funded for three years and part of the DSOFlex project funded by the Research Council of Finland.

About the job

As a doctoral researcher, you will conduct scientific research and perform post-graduate studies to achieve a doctoral degree. You will also participate actively in teaching and supervision activities at the MSc level.

TheDSOflex project (DSOs facilitating energy transition – The carbon handprint of flexibility) addresses the critical role of Distribution System Operators (DSOs) enabling a sustainable, flexible, and inclusive energy transition. DSOs face increasing pressure to manage local grid constraints while supporting system-wide decarbonization. The project investigates how DSOs can facilitate flexibility services and contribute to the creation of carbon handprint. The project is carried out in collaboration with VTT and the University of Oulu, OBS/MAIGBE and TTK/WE3 units. Please find project info here.

Position 1: Business model framework

In this research, you will develop a holistic platform-based business model framework to capture and analyse DSOs' flexibility services and carbon handprint.

Researcher 1 will join the DSOflex project as part of the Martti Ahtisaari Institute. Research in the Martti Ahtisaari Institute focuses on businesses in the context of future technologies.

Position 2: Carbon handprint

In this research, you will define and quantify the positive environmental impact of DSOs' operations and services, in terms of carbon handprint. This could be resulting from DSO-facilitated integration of VRES and storage solutions, as well as from facilitating demand-side management and flexibility services. You will also be applying machine learning and optimization to enhance DSM to improve prediction accuracy for VRES and the carbon intensity of electricity.

Researcher 2 will join the DSOflex project as part of the Energy and Environmental Engineering Research Group. The energy group's research supports the transition to sustainable and carbon-neutral energy systems. We focus on decarbonising the energy system and the environmental impacts and social justice of the transition process.

What we offer

• The support of an enthusiastic team of over 100 researchers in the OBS and WE3 Research Units, where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.

• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being.

• Development and career options of the big organization.

• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.

• Our Buddy Programmeand Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.

• 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.

• 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.

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we require from you:

Position 1 (Business model framework):

• Master's degree in business/management, environmental studies, or engineering. A Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher's work.

• An initial research plan

• Ability and motivation for doctoral studies

• Fluent in written and spoken English

• You must apply for the right to study for a doctoral degree at the beginning of your employment in accordance with the requirements ofthe University of Oulu Graduate School(UniOGS)

Position 2 (Carbon handprint):

• Master's degree in energy or environmental engineering. A Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher's work.

• At least 30 ECTS worth of studies in relevant subjects (energy, environment, sustainability)

• Good understanding of the working of the power system and its domains in Finland

• Good IT skills, as this will be mainly a desktop research project

• An initial research plan

• Ability and motivation for doctoral studies

• Fluent in written and spoken English

• You must apply for the right to study for a doctoral degree at the beginning of your employment in accordance with the requirements ofthe University of Oulu Graduate School(UniOGS)

We also appreciate if you have at least one of the following:

Position 1 (Business model framework):

• Experience or prior research or studies with a focus on business models, digital platforms, or sustainability. Specifically, we appreciate experience in the energy system context.

Position 2 (Carbon handprint):

• Prior research, studies, or experience in demand side management

• Experience using energy system or dynamic scenario modelling tools

• Prior research, studies, or experience in carbon footprint/handprint and sustainability issues

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years as of 17.8.2026 (or as agreed).

The salary will be based on levels 2-4 of the demand 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 approx. 2500-2800 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please applyby 30.6.2026(23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.