Research Scientist (postdoc) – Hydrogeology / PFAS Transport in subsurface environments

At GTK, we aim to work for the Earth and for Us. We conduct objective research to find solutions to challenges posed by climate change, the energy transition, and the circular economy. Our 400 experts are specialists in the mineral economy, green energy, water management, the environment, and digital solutions. Together with our Finnish and global partners, we are building sustainable and carbon-neutral future. GTK is a research organization governed by the Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy. www.gtk.fi/en

Research Scientist (postdoc) – Hydrogeology / PFAS Transport in subsurface environments

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to study the fate and transport of PFAS in the subsurface at the Water and Mining Environment Solutions unit. Your office is in Espoo, and you can also work remotely partially in Finland.

This position is part of the “EMERGING-FLOW” project, co-funded by the Research Council of Finland and GTK. The project aims to determine the transport and fate of emerging contaminants (PFAS) in Finnish groundwaters and their implications on drinking water supplies and the Baltic Sea. We are seeking a researcher who works both independently and as a team member to further our understanding of the mechanisms controlling groundwater flow and contaminant transport. The successful candidate will integrate their field observations and environmental tracers to develop conceptual and numerical models, which will be applied to sustainable water management. In addition to the execution of the research tasks, the candidate is required to publish the results in high-quality journals, participate in scientific conferences, workshops, and seminars to present the results of this project. The candidate will collaborate with international project partners and Finnish stakeholders. The project also includes mobility periods abroad e.g. research and dissemination visits.

You will be working in Water and Mining Environment Solutions unit of approximately 50 professionals, who work e.g. on groundwater research, hydrogeochemistry, groundwater flow modelling, reactive transport modelling, mining environments and water management related issues. You will be part of the hydrogeology and modelling group.

Education, experience and skills expected of an applicant

• PhD in hydrogeology, environmental chemistry, or related fields. We expect you to have completed your doctorate no more than five years ago (up to 7 years for special reasons).
• Demonstrated research experience in one or more of these fields: contaminant hydrogeology, numerical modelling or PFAS research
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and with external partners
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting
• Demonstrated track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Fluency in written and spoken English (equivalent CEFR C1)
• Ability to travel domestically to field sites (3 weeks/year)
• Ability to travel abroad for research visits and conferences (less than one month per year)
• Valid driving license B or ability to get it in a short time.

Education, experience and skills that are appreciated

• Proficiency in field techniques to investigate surface water and groundwater interactions
• Experience in groundwater dating tracers
• Knowledge of PFAS chemistry and ability to handle large PFAS datasets
• An independent, active and meticulous approach to conducting research
• A strong interest in interdisciplinary and international research work.

Personal qualities desired from the applicant

• You are able to communicate and interact with a diverse range of stakeholders
• You have the capacity to familiarize yourself quickly with new topics
• You are able to solve technical issues at field sites
• You are proactive, collaborative, and have the ability to work independently as well as in a team
• You are creative and able to bring your own ideas to the project team.

What we offer

GTK is an international and diverse work community where everyone’s input is valued. Our employees have the opportunity to influence their own work and work remotely in Finland. At GTK we are committed to renew our operations and expertise. We take care of our employees’ wellbeing with our wide range of activities that support wellbeing at work. In addition, we offer central government holiday benefits and a modern and multi-location work, such as flexible working hours. Find out more about us: www.gtk.fi/en/careers-at-gtk/

Information about pay

The total salary at the beginning of employment will be EUR 4226-4504 per month. The salary is determined by the competence of the person selected for the position.

Other details

The starting date is 1.4.2025 or by agreement. The position is fixed term with a maximum duration of 3 years or until August 2028 at the most. The position includes a probationary period.

For further information, please contact your scientific supervisor, senior scientist Marie-Amélie Pétré marie-amelie.petre@gtk.fi, tel. +358 50 348 6382 reachable on Monday to Friday between 11 – 13 (EET). In employment matters, please contact your future supervisor, team manager Nina Hendriksson nina.hendriksson@gtk.fi , tel. +358 29 503 205 reachable from 17.1.2025 on Fridays from 13 – 14 (EET).

We consciously advance the diversity and equality of our staff, so we encourage many kinds of people from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Our internationalising work community is one example of our diversity.

Please send your application in English with your cover letter, full CV, copies of your academic transcript and PhD diploma, and the names and contact details (including e-mail addresses) of at least two referees through the valtiolle.fi-service latest on 31.1.2025 at 16:15 (EET), using service key 9650.

Interviews are scheduled to take place in February-March 2025.

We may conduct a personal background check on the person selected for the job with the person’s consent (security clearance act 726/2014). For more information about the security clearance process and the rights of subjects of background checks, please visit www.supo.fi/en

Please note that names of the applicants and the applications with attachments are public.

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