"Doctoral Researcher in Geological Hydrogen Reservoirs – HydRes Project"

Doctoral Researcher in Geological Hydrogen Reservoirs – HydRes Project

The University of Helsinki, Department of Geosciences and Geography, invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in the HydRes project, “Finding H₂ – Geological hydrogen reservoirs for sustainable energy production in Finland”, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The position will start in April 2026, or as agreed, and continue until the end of December 2029.

Position description

The HydRes project is a multidisciplinary collaboration between the University of Helsinki and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, aiming to advance the understanding and sustainable utilization of geological hydrogen reservoirs in crystalline bedrock. Hydrogen is a key enabler of the green transition, and geological hydrogen has the potential to provide a renewable, emission-free energy source for sectors that are challenging to electrify. HydRes will address questions related to the formation, exploration, renewability, and exploitation of geological hydrogen reservoirs, combining geochemistry, microbiology, isotope analysis, and modelling.

The doctoral researcher will focus on the geological hydrogen aspects of the project by integrating microbiological and geochemical data to develop diagnostic tools for assessing hydrogen potential and sustainability of geological hydrogen production. The position offers a unique opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary team, develop expertise in isotope geochemistry, hydrogeochemistry, and geomicrobiology, and contribute to the emerging topic of the role of geological hydrogen in the hydrogen economy.

The doctoral researcher will join the Sustainable Earth Resources Research Group at the Department of Geosciences and Geography, University of Helsinki, and benefit from state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and collaborations with leading national and international experts. The position includes participation in field sampling campaigns at deep drill hole sites, as well as research visits and opportunities for professional development and networking.

Requirements

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in geology, geochemistry, environmental sciences, microbiology, or a related field by the first day of employment.
• Strong interest in isotope geochemistry, hydrogeochemistry and/or geomicrobiology.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience in laboratory and/or field work is an asset

The appointee for the doctoral researcher position should either already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki by the start of the appointment or apply for the right and obtain it within the trial period of six months. If the candidate does not already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki, it must be applied for separately (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/apply-doctoral-programmes/how-apply-doctoral-programmes). The requirements for pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki can be found at https://www.helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/apply-doctoral-programmes/eligilibity-doctoral-programmes.

Salary and benefits

The starting salary of the doctoral researcher will be approximately 2600 euros/month and will rise gradually as the PhD work progresses, based on the University of Helsinki salary scheme. The position will include a six-month trial period. The position offers the possibility for partial remote work, in accordance with University of Helsinki guidelines. Furthermore, the University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational healthcare, sports facilities, and vast opportunities for professional development.

Finland is a member of EU, has a high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare. Finland and Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks.

For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.

How to apply

Please submit your application, which includes the following PDF-documents in English:

• A motivation letter (max 1 page) explaining how your academic background and research interests fit with the position
• Curriculum vitae – your most recently updated CV, including publications (if any)

External applicants, please submit your application to the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the “Apply now” button.

Applicants who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment/grant/visitor contract at the University of Helsinki are requested to submit their application via SAP Fiori Employee login.

Deadline for applications is 16th March 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Additional information

For further enquiries related to the position, please contact Associate Professor Riikka Kietäväinen, email riikka.kietavainen@helsinki.fi, phone +358 294151710 (from 2 March 2026)

If you need support with the recruitment system, please contact rekrytointi@helsinki.fi.

A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions.

Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University.

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