Fukuoka Institute of Technology

Postdoctoral Researcher in Mechanistic Interface Science for Lithium-based Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We shape a sustainable future by making research breakthroughs in and across our disciplines, sparking the game changers of tomorrow and creating novel solutions to major global challenges. Our community is made up of 120 nationalities, 14 000 students, 400 professors and close to 5000 faculty and staff working on our dynamic campus in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, Finland. Diversity is part of who we are, and we actively work to ensure our community’s diversity and inclusiveness. This is why we warmly encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to join our community. At the Department of Applied Physics, our pioneering research in physical sciences creates important industrial applications that hold great technological potential. Our research focuses on Materials physics, Quantum technology, Soft & living matter, and Advanced energy solutions. Topics extend from fundamental research to important applications. We educate future generations of research and development professionals, data specialists, technology experts, inventors, and scientists for industry and society. Are you excited about mechanistic electrochemistry and state-of-the-art operando/cryogenic characterization of reactive interfaces? We are now looking for a postdoctoral researcher to lead the development of an advanced and correlative characterization workflow for lithium deposition and solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) analysis in lithium-mediated nitrogen reduction reaction (LiNRR) systems for green ammonia synthesis at Aalto University’s Department of Applied Physics. In this position, you will have a chance to make an impact by establishing reliable, multimodal methods that connect interphase chemistry and morphology to electrochemical performance, stability, and degradation mechanisms. Join us in shaping the future of advanced electrochemical interface science! LiNRR is a highly dynamic electrochemical process where Li plating/stripping, SEI formation, electrolyte/proton-source reactions. These co-evolve and directly influence ammonia formation and energy efficiency. This position targets the core bottleneck: turning complex, sensitive interphases into measurable, interpretable mechanisms through operando and in-situ observation and correlative analysis. Alternative mediated systems other than lithium will also be investigated. Your work will also build transferable capability for other lithium and battery-relevant interfacial processes. This postdoctoral position is funded through a recent M-Era.Net project “Ammonia Production via Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrogen” and the project partners also includes SINTEF, Solvenian National Institute of Chemistry, as well as industrial partners - NitroVolt and NanoScientifica. Your role and goals Build a correlative characterization and analysis workflow for Li deposition and SEI evolution, integrating structural and chemical information at various length- and timescales. Perform operando and post-mortem characterization to obtain mechanistic understanding of Li deposition and SEI evolution. A toolkit of morphological, strucutral and chemical analysis techniques will be used, including: cryo-FIB/SEM, cryo-TEM, in-situ and liquid-cell TEM, EC-AFM, XCT, SAXS, XAS, XRS, XPS, etc. Correlate materials characterization results with electrochemical kinetics analysis and computational insights for mechanistic interpretation of LiNRR and beyond-Li NRR. Collaborate with the project partners and support their research activities in this project Support other electrochemical studies (e.g., batteries) within the group Your network and team Aalto University established a characterization platform for visualization and analysis of the SEI layer by integrating advanced ex situ and in situ/operando characterization techniques to unveil interfacial reactions and visualize lithium metal deposition and SEI evolution You will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment within the Advanced Energy Solutions area of Aalto University. You will collaborate closely with a team focusing on SEI engineering, as well as colleagues working on Batteries. Part of the characterizations will be performed at the Nanomicroscopy center (e.g., for cryo-FIB/STEM and operando TEM). Supervision will be provided by Prof. Yaolin Xu, team leader of EMI (Energy Materials & Interfaces). And you will have the opportunity to interact with world-class experts in electrochemistry, materials science, and microscopy. Daily collaboration with the local electrochemistry and characterization team at Aalto University. Access to facility experts and infrastructure in microscopy and spectroscopy to support robust sample preparation, transfer, measurement, and analysis. Opportunity to collaborate with international research teams The person selected for the position will report to Prof. Yaolin Xu Head of Energy Materials & Interfaces (EMI) Group. Your experience and ambitions We are looking for a candidate who: Has a PhD in physics, materials science, chemical engineering, or a closely related field Experienced in electrochemical ammonia synthesis, preferrably LiNRR Strong background in electrochemical interfaces and/or advanced materials characterization Hands-on experience in one or more of the following: In situ/operando spectroscopy (incl. operando FTIR, Raman, and X-ray spectroscopy) AFM and/or 3D imaging (e.g., XCT) Cryo-FIB/SEM and cryo-STEM & liquid-cell TEM Experienced in glovebox workflows and controlled sample transfer Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment EN: Fluency in English is required (spoken and written). FI: Finnish language is not required; proficiency is considered an advantage. This position offers a rare combination of electrochemistry, operando and in-situ characterization, and correlative mechanism-driven analysis for green ammonia via LiNRR. You will help build a platform capability that enables reliable, interpretable insight into one of the most challenging interface problems in electrochemistry, with strong links to both battery-relevant science and industrial translation. What we offer A meaningful and inspiring research environment in a university ranked among the world’s best in sustainability and materials science Access to world-class research infrastructure in the EMI group and at Aalto’s Nanomicroscopy Center, including state-of-the-art EC-AFM, analytical STEM, cryo-EM, liquid cell TEM, SAXS, etc. The chance to collaborate with experts across electrochemistry, nanomaterials, and advanced energy solutions Support for professional development, including training, international conferences, and career coaching A vibrant, international campus community in Espoo, Greater Helsinki, consistently ranked as one of the happiest and safest places to live worldwide The position is full-time and funded for two years. The salary range for this position is approximately 4130–4550 €/month, depending on experience, and includes occupational healthcare. Our vast array of professional development opportunities means you will grow and learn, having the chance to participate actively in staff trainings and development projects based on your interests and needs. We value work-life balance and well-being in all aspects of life. We work in a hybrid model, with the primary workplace located at the Otaniemi Campus in Espoo, Finland. Life on the revitalized campus is vibrant, featuring stunning architecture, tranquil nature, and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and services, all complemented by excellent public transportation connections. Join us! To apply, please share your CV and motivation letter as one single PDF document in English with us through our recruitment site ("Apply now!”) latest at 23.59pm (EEST/UTC +3) April 17th, 2026. Please note: Aalto University’s employees should apply for the position via our internal HR system Workday (Internal Jobs) by using their existing Workday user account (not via the external webpage for open positions). If you are a student or visitor at Aalto University, please apply with your personal email address (not aalto.fi) via Aalto University open positions. Please note the position shall be filled as soon as possible. We will only consider candidates who can start working on this project immediately. Also, we will review applications and invite suitable candidates to interview already during the application period. You will hear from us the latest one week after the application deadline. For more information about the role, please contact professor Yaolin Xu, yaolin.xu@aalto.fi. Want to know more about us and your future colleagues? You can watch these videos: This is Aalto University! Aalto University – Towards a better world and Shaping a Sustainable Future. Read more about working at Aalto: Careers at Aalto | Aalto University Check out our new virtual campus experience: Aalto University – virtual campus tour About Finland Finland is a great place for living with or without family – it is a safe, politically stable and well-organized Nordic society. Finland is consistently ranked high in quality of life and was listed again as the happiest country in the world: World Happiness Report 2025. For more information about living in Finland: Aalto Careers for International Staff. More about Aalto University: Aalto.fi youtube.com/user/aaltouniversity linkedin.com/school/aalto-university/ www.facebook.com/aaltouniversity instagram.com/aaltouniversity To view information about Workday Accessibility, please click here. Please see more of our Open Positions here.

Location Docklands Campus Salary £46,471 to £51,606 per annum inclusive of London Weighting Post Type Full Time Post Type Fixed Term Contract Length 12 months Closing Date Friday 10 April 2026 Reference 0647-26-PS University of East London At the University of East London (UEL), our mission is to prepare students for the careers of the future while shaping that future inclusively and sustainably. As a careers-first university, we believe education and opportunity should be open to all, and that diversity of people and thought is essential to solving society’s biggest challenges. Founded in 1898 as the West Ham Technical Institute, UEL has always championed industry-focused education and social mobility, earning the name “The People’s University” for its commitment to widening access to technical and professional learning. While our scale and ambition have grown, our purpose has remained constant: empowering communities, advancing social justice, and equipping students with future-proof skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Today, UEL continues this legacy through pioneering research, employer-engaged education, and meaningful community impact. We are tackling health and economic inequalities, promoting sustainability, and helping to build a more inclusive and resilient future. Guided by our ambitious Vision 2028  strategy, UEL is reshaping education for the benefit of all, empowering students from every background with the skills and opportunities to succeed. Our commitment to excellence is recognised nationally; we are proud to be named University of the Year for Teaching Quality in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. At UEL, we don’t just teach, we inspire, innovate and empower, shaping the future together. About External Relations Our multi-award-winning External Relations Directorate brings together a wide range of specialist teams including Brand & Marketing, Communications & Public Relations, Corporate Engagement & Advancement, Student Recruitment & Conversion (home and international), Admissions, Outreach & Access, and Design & Digital. We are building a forward-thinking, digitally driven function, embedding innovative practice and a digital-first mindset across all our work. We are looking for individuals who thrive in an agile environment, embrace new technologies, and are excited by transformational change. Together, we are creating a culture of continuous evolution—staying at the forefront of emerging trends and best practice across the sector. About the Role This is an exciting opportunity to join a creative and fast-paced internal communications team, delivering high-quality communications that engage and inform staff across the University. You will play a key role in planning, delivering and evaluating clear, compelling and creative internal communications campaigns, working closely with stakeholders across the institution. Key Responsibilities Develop and deliver creative communication plans for University-wide projects and staff engagement campaigns Work with stakeholders to define communication objectives and deliver targeted, effective messaging Produce clear, engaging and accurate content across a range of channels, often to tight deadlines Adapt tone and messaging to suit different audiences and platforms Measure and evaluate communications using data and feedback, making recommendations for improvement Review and enhance internal communication channels to ensure they remain accessible, relevant and engaging Draft communications on behalf of senior leaders, including the Vice-Chancellor and Executive Board Act as a trusted internal communications advisor, providing guidance and influencing stakeholders at all levels Contribute to initiatives that improve staff engagement and feedback mechanisms Work collaboratively across External Relations to ensure a consistent and joined-up approach About You You will be a confident and creative communications professional with experience delivering impactful campaigns to diverse audiences. You will bring: A degree (or equivalent experience) in communications or a related field Experience planning, delivering and evaluating successful communications campaigns Strong experience creating engaging, high-quality content for varied audiences Experience working with and influencing stakeholders across complex organisations Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft 365 tools and digital communication platforms Skills and qualities: Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, engaging messages Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and tight deadlines Confidence working independently and using initiative Sound judgement when handling sensitive communications Confidence using new technologies and communication platforms A collaborative and flexible approach, with the ability to adapt in a fast-changing environment What You’ll Need to Thrive You’ll thrive in this role if you are creative, proactive and solutions-focused, with the confidence to work in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities. You’ll enjoy building relationships across the organisation, influencing stakeholders, and using insight to continuously improve communications and engagement. Additional Information Flexibility to work occasional evenings or out-of-hours when required A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion Benefits Package At UEL, we believe that a great role is about more than just a salary. It’s about the complete package, including our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture. We offer a genuinely competitive salary, dependent on experience (DOE), and a range of excellent benefits. You can explore our full benefits package here: https://uel.ac.uk/benefits-professional-services-positions Building an Inclusive Future As an inclusive, equal-opportunities employer, our multiple Charter awards (Stonewall, Race Equality and Athena Swan) reflect our ongoing dedication to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and we’re committed to closing the ethnicity pay gap. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and honest that there’s more to do. We’re determined to keep moving forward so everyone at UEL can thrive. So, if you’d like to take your career to the next level with us here at the University of East London and are inspired by our environment and commit to success, we want you to apply today! Please note that this advert may close earlier than the deadline if we receive many applications. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. Further Details Job Description & Person Specification To contact the recruitment team please phone +44 20 8223 3000 x 4600 or e-mail jobs@uel.ac.uk CVs without a completed application form will not be accepted. At UEL we are committed to working together to build a community which values diversity in both our staff and student populations, is representative and inclusive, enabling all to progress and thrive.

The Role and Department The Senior Research Contracts Manager will provide expert leadership in the negotiation, drafting and management of research agreements, ensuring that the University's interests are protected while enabling high quality research activity to proceed efficiently. Acting as a senior point of escalation for complex or high risk contractual matters, the post holder will offer authoritative advice on contractual terms, governance requirements and compliance obligations across a diverse range of funders and partners. The role will involve drafting and negotiating a wide variety of research agreements, including collaboration agreements, contract research agreements, framework agreements, subcontracts, sub awards and studentships, working with a broad range of UK and international sponsors and collaborators. The post holder will also contribute to the smooth running of the research contract's function, including co ordinating the development of standard agreements and supporting the design and implementation of robust internal contracting processes and workflows, ensuring continuous enhancement of research contracting across the institution. You will work alongside two otherSenior Research Contracts Managers who provide leadership and oversight for the University's research contracting function, ensuring consistent practice, effective workload management and a coordinated, high quality service. The post holder will build strong working relationships with academic colleagues, Professional Services teams and external partners, providing clear guidance and negotiation leadership that balances institutional risk with enabling research activity. This role is central to ensuring contractual readiness, robust risk management and the effective transition of projects into delivery. A thorough understanding of the UK HEI research funding landscape is essential. Reporting to the Head of Research Operations, you will be a key member of the Senior Management Team. The post holder must be highly organised, detail focused and proactive in solving problems, with the ability to prioritise and manage a busy and varied workload. You will be comfortable working across multiple concurrent projects at different stages of development. As a confident communicator, you will form close working relationships with colleagues across the Operations Team, the Research Development Team, Faculty Offices, Heads of Department, Directors of Research, Department Managers and other Professional Support Staff. Subject to business need, the working pattern can be arranged to suit the successful applicant. Dependent on experience, the successful applicant may need to work on campus for the majority of the time for the first three months Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description.