Post-doctoral researcher in computational weld mechanics

LUT University; Lappeenranta; Hybrid; EUR 48,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

International collaboration

Job summary

LUT University in Lappeenranta invites applications for a post-doctoral researcher position in computational weld mechanics. You will develop multiscale FEM-based welding simulations, model distortions and residual stresses, and integrate experimental data with simulations.

The role emphasizes publishing results, supervising theses, and teaching, with a hybrid work model and a two-year non-tenure track appointment starting December 2026.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in a relevant field with ability for independent scientific work and teaching.
• Willingness to supervise theses and contribute to teaching.
• Excellent English skills; Finnish not required.

Responsibilities

• Publish research results in international journals and conferences.
• Develop multiscale CWM methods for industrial-scale welded structures.
• Calibrate and validate predictive models using experimental data.

Skills

Independent research

Teaching

English skills

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Doctoral degree in mechanical/structural engineering

Tools

Finite element analysis

Computational weld mechanics

Job description

Are you interested in computational weld mechanics research? Join the Welding Technology Laboratory at LUT University as a post-doctoral researcher and become part of an international research team developing multiscale simulation methods for industrial-scale welded structures.

What Your Work Will Be Like

You will focus on the development of multiscale computational weld mechanics (CWM) methods for industrial-scale welded structures. The work aims to bridge detailed thermomechanical welding simulations and computationally efficient engineering models suitable for large and geometrically complex assemblies.

The research involves developing finite element-based welding simulations for large-scale structures and modelling welding-induced distortions and residual stresses. You will develop and validate thermomechanical and reduced-order simulation methods, such as inherent strain and thermal cycle-based approaches, and integrate experimental measurements with simulation models. The work also includes calibrating and validating predictive models using thermal, distortion and residual stress measurements, as well as optimising welding and assembly sequences for industrial applications.

You will be part of the Welding Technology Unit and the Steel Structures Unit at the LUT School of Energy Systems. Approximately 25 researchers are involved in these units, which collaborate closely with partner universities, including the University of Oulu (Finland), KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden) and Chemnitz University of Technology (Germany), as well as with industrial partners.

The position is research-oriented, and publishing research results in international journals and conference proceedings is an important part of the role. In addition to research, the position may include supervision of bachelor’s and master’s theses, contribution to teaching, and mentoring of doctoral and other early-career researchers.

What We Expect From You

You have a doctoral degree in mechanical or structural engineering, materials science, manufacturing (welding) engineering, or another relevant field, the ability for independent scientific work, and teaching skills.

We welcome applications from recent doctoral graduates, other early-career researchers, and experienced post-doctoral researchers.

Expertise in finite element analysis, computational weld mechanics, thermomechanical simulations, numerical modelling, experimental validation, or welding technology is considered a strong advantage in this position. Familiarity with computer vision and machine learning applications is considered an advantage.

We value initiative, strong communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. The position requires good English skills and the ability to teach in English. Finnish language skills are not required.

We expect a willingness to travel, as the position includes project-related travel within Finland and participation in international conferences.

The position is a part of LUT University's non-tenure track system. The appointment is initially for two years, including a six-month trial period, and may be extended by up to two years based on performance and progress.

What We Offer

You will join an internationally oriented research group where you can develop your research profile, collaborate on research projects, and contribute to impactful research in the fields of welding technology and steel structures.

The job is based in Lappeenranta. A flexible hybrid working model is applied, with regular on-site presence required due to laboratory work, experimental activities and close collaboration with the research team.

The work starts in December 2026, at the earliest, or as agreed. The position follows a system of 1,612 annual working hours under the collective agreement for Finnish universities. The hours are flexible and support work–life balance.

The salary is based on the Finnish university pay system’s scale (requirement levels 5–6). The starting salary is approximately EUR 4,300–5,000 per month, and the final salary is based on prior expertise and experience.

For further information about the position, please contact Associate Professor Tuomas Skriko ([e-mail], [phone]) or Assistant Professor Antti Ahola ([e-mail], [phone]), preferably by email. You can also reach them by phone on 25 September 2026 and 9 October 2026 from 14:00 to 15:00 (UTC+2).

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