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

The University of Vaasa is an inspiring and international community where we work together for a sustainable and responsible future. We combine expertise in business and technology in a unique way, tackling current challenges with determination and collaboration. As part of the Nordic regions largest energy technology hub, we promote sustainable business, energy, and society. We educate future professionals who will create a fairer and more sustainable world.

The position is offered initially for two (2) years starting on September-October 2026 or at an earliest possible date mutually agreed between both parties. The position is located in the School of Technology and Innovation and under energy technology discipline.

https://www.univaasa.fi/en/about/organisation/schools/technology-and-innovations/

Your role

You will be part of the Efficient Powertrain Solutions (EPS) Research group working on several challenging projects, at the forefront of research and development of novel combustion engine technologies. With over 40 researchers and 3 MEUR of annual research turnover, we are the biggest focused powertrain-oriented research group in Finland. Our focus is on model-based development of advanced engine solutions supporting our industry partners in conforming to tightening emissions and noise regulation in marine and off-road sectors.

Hydrogen represents a promising zero-carbon alternative fuel for large oceangoing vessels, where internal combustion engines are expected to remain a prime mover. However, significant challenges have restrained its large-scale onboard integration, amid concerns related to safety, fuel availability, and cost.

The new EU-funded H4PERION project directly addresses these barriers by developing a new ultra-efficient hydrogen-capable internal combustion engine (TRL 7, while meeting 55% thermal efficiency target), followed by concept integration at ship level through a pilot demonstration.

In this context as part of the EPS team, you will contribute to:

• Developing a novel low-temperature combustion concept securing ultra-high efficiency and flexible operation with hydrogen and other gaseous fuels.
• Designing the corresponding multi-fuel supply systems.
• Integrating the exhaust aftertreatment systems together with appropriate thermal and energy management strategies to ensure compliance with the projects emission and efficiency targets.
• Virtual calibration with the use of machine learning or AI techniques to enhance combustion engine research.

Achieving the targeted efficiency within the project timeline requires deep integration of simulation and testing environments with autonomous calibration routines. To this end we are seeking talented and motivated researchers in simulation-driven engine testing.

All tasks are agreed in more detail in the Annual Work Plan. The annual working time is 1612 hours.

Hydrogen takes a major step forward in maritime – University of Vaasa to coordinate ambitious European demonstration

✅Requirements

• You have a masters degree or a PhD in a relevant field. For example mechanical engineering, with a specialization in combustion engines.
• You have documented Experience in 1D engine/combustion/aftertreatment model calibration and validation with experimental data.
• You are able to efficiently plan and conduct engine experiments and postprocess combustion and emission data. Laboratory experience such as test-rig development, instrumentation, and data-acquisition is considered a strong advantage.
• Excellent analytical skills in addition to good academic writing skills are highly advantageous for your candidature.
• Proven track record in 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 and language (English is required) 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 at least 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: Doctoral education | University of Vaasa (uwasa.fi)

Inspirational work environment

In 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 a unique, state of the art, research facilities at EnergyLab. With close collaboration with industry, we are transforming the energy sector by bringing the cutting-edge technology to real-world application. We welcome you to join one of the most fascinating energy innovation centers in the Nordic region in combustion modelling and control. For more information about the facilities see: EnergyLabhttps://www.uwasa.fi/en/newshub/news/university-vaasa-university-oulu-vtt-and-wartsila-are-building-energy-laboratoryhttps://www.uwasa.fi/en/newshub/news/new-consortium-led-university-vaasa-research-hydrogen-argon-power-cycle-net-zero-power

Efficient Powertrain Solutions (EPS) research group is part of Energy Technology track in the School of Technology and Innovations. We need open-minded, creative and skilled individuals to explore and develop the future energy solutions. 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,