Postdoctoral Researcher (geochronology method development)

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

Postdoctoral Researcher (geochronology method development)

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) is looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher for the Circular Economy Solutions unit. Your office is in Research laboratory in Espoo, but occasionally you can also work remotely in Finland.

Your task involves age determination of rock samples, with a particular focus on the Rb-Sr method, which is utilized in studying the formation and evolution of ore deposits. In your role, you will be responsible for developing this analytical method using the instruments LA-MC-ICP-MS/MS, LA-ICP-TOF-MS/MS, FIN TIMS, and FS-laser, which you will operate independently. As a result of your work, the laboratory will have a validated in situ Rb-Sr age determination method, with operational guidelines.

Your responsibilities include implementing the research plan for this method development project and publishing results in peer-reviewed publications and conferences. In addition, your duties will include research and other cooperation within GTK and with national and international stakeholders, as well as other central tasks related to the project. You will be supported by the project’s scientific lead and will be part of an international research team with access to a comprehensive mineralogy laboratory, too.

This postdoc position is part of Postdoctoral Programme for Research Institutes in Finland. The Programme is funded from the Finnish long-term research and development (R&D) plan. The Programme recruits 85 new postdoctoral researchers to 12 Finnish government research institutes between 2025 and 2028. The aim of the Programme is to strengthen R&D competence in areas important to society and business. Postdoctoral researchers will drive impactful, high-level research bridging science, industry, and administration. The Programme supports postdoctoral researcher’s networking and mobility between sectors. Read more here.

Education, experience and skills expected of an applicant

• PhD in geology, geochemistry, analytical chemistry, or another relevant field. You must have your PhD degree by the time of starting the position. Your doctorate should be no more than five years old (up to ten years for special reasons). The position may also be filled by a person who has been awarded a permission to defend their dissertation before submitting the application.
• Knowledge of the principles of isotope geochemistry and geochronology
• Hands-on experience in ICP mass spectrometry
• Project work and/or project management skills
• Relevant scientific publication track record
• Fluent written and oral skills in English

Education, experience and skills that are appreciated

• Experience in geochronology
• Experience with independently operating mass spectrometers
• Experience in analytical method development and validation
• Hands-on experience with laser ablation technology
• Familiarity with ore geology and metallogenic processes
• Knowledge of Precambrian geology
• Willingness to travel in Finland and abroad (approximately 5-18 working days per year)
• Finnish language skills or interest in learning Finnish

Personal qualities desired from the applicant

You are a motivated early career researcher, eager to learn new things and continuously develop your skills. You have good co-operation, interaction, and communication skills but you also enjoy working independently.

What we offer

GTK is an international and diverse work community where everyone’s input is valued. Our employees have an opportunity to influence their own work. 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 salary is determined by the competence of the person selected for the position. The total salary at the beginning of employment will be EUR 4414 – 4704 per month.

Other details

The starting date is 1.4.2026 or by agreement. The position is fixed term for 3 years. The position includes a probationary period. The selected postdoctoral researcher may be transferred to a permanent research scientist position after an evaluation at the end of their temporary position and GTK’s resource needs assessment.

For further information, please contact your future supervisor Heli Lallukka, tel. +358 295 030 197, reachable on 3 Dec 2025 from 9 to 16 and 12 Dec 2025 from 9 to 16 (EET) or Research Professor Abigail Barker, tel. +358 295 030 048, reachable on 8 Dec 2025 from 9 to 17 and 15 Dec 2025 from 9 to 17 (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 work community is made up of more than 20 different nationalities, which is one example of our diversity.

Please send your application with your motivation letter and CV in English through the valtiolle.fi-service latest on 9.1.2026 at 16:15 (EET), using service key 17095.

The interviews are scheduled to take place in January.

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.

Apply for the position