JOB OPENING: A Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Space Physics Group at the Department of Physics[...]

University of Helsinki; Finland; On-site; EUR 40 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading European research institution in Finland is seeking a postdoctoral fellow for a 2-year project in the Space Physics Group. The role focuses on the development and use of the Vlasiator simulation to investigate ion-kinetic physics. Candidates must have prior knowledge in GPU technologies, high-performance computing, and experience in C++. This position offers an opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative team in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Possibility to network and develop as a researcher

Great work-life balance in Finland

Qualifications

• Prior knowledge in GPU technologies and high-performance computing.
• Experience with C++ and parallelisation algorithms is required.
• Familiarity with plasma processes in the magnetotail is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Focus on using and/or developing the Vlasiator simulation.
• Investigate ion-kinetic physics in near-Earth space.
• Collaborate within a dynamic and international research group.

Skills

GPU technologies

high-performance computing

C++

parallelisation algorithms

plasma processes

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Job description

Organisation/Company University of Helsinki Research Field Computer science » Other Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Country Finland Application Deadline 31 Oct 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Type of Contract To be defined Job Status Negotiable Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The Space Physics Group at the Department of Physics is a leading European space physics group specialised in modelling of space plasmas. We develop the novel global hybrid-Vlasov simulation Vlasiator to investigate ion-kinetic physics in near-Earth space.

We are now opening a postdoctoral fellow position for a 2-year project. The selected person will focus on either using and/or developing Vlasiator. Prior knowledge in at least one of the following areas is required: GPU technologies, high-performance computing, parallelisation algorithms, C++, plasma processes in the magnetotail including magnetic reconnection and kinetic instabilities.

We offer a position in a dynamic and international research group, with a possibility to network and to develop as a researcher. The Vlasiator team is innovative, high-spirited and a close community. Finland is the happiest country in the world offering a great environment fostering equality, equality of opportunities, the best schooling system, vacations, and possibilities for work-family balance.

The 2-year position is available immediately. The deadline for applications is 31.10.2025.

For specifics about the position, contact Professor Minna Palmroth (minna.palmroth(at)helsinki.fi). Interested candidates should send their informal application, CV, list of publications, and a maximum of three names to act as references in the possible shortlisting to [e-mail] and cc: Minna.Palmroth(at)helsinki.fi.