Research Professor / Associate Research Professor in Mineral Processing

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 a 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 Professor / Associate Research Professor in Mineral Processing

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) is looking for a Research Professor or Associate Research Professor in Mineral Processing. You will work in the Circular Economy Solutions unit and collaborate with GTK’s researchers and external partners. Outokumpu is the primary office location for this role. While your official office location can also be Espoo, Kokkola, Kuopio, or Rovaniemi, and you can also work remotely in a flexible manner in Finland, regular presence in Outokumpu is essential to successfully carry out the responsibilities of the position.

In this role, you will develop cutting-edge research, innovations, and customer-oriented applications by utilizing GTK Mintec’s advanced facilities. You are expected to successfully apply for competitive research funding, initiate and lead national and international scientific and innovation projects, and contribute to GTK’s strategic expertise in mineral processing.

GTK Mintec offers a unique research environment for mineral processing, including state-of-the-art pilot-scale infrastructure that enables development and testing across the entire value chain. Learn more about GTK Mintec’s infrastructure: GTK Mintec | GTK

We expect

• As a qualification requirement, you must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field (e.g., mineral processing, mining engineering, geology, geometallurgy) and strong expertise in mineral processing technologies and methods.
• You have extensive and relevant multi-disciplinary post-doctoral level experience, depending on the level of professor position sought.
• You have conducted academic research in your field, which is clearly reflected in outstanding publication record in national and international peer-reviewed journals and/or books.
• You are a recognized international expert in mineral processing, with demonstrated ability in process development, optimization, and pilot-scale testing.
• You have experience in ensuring occupational safety in both mineral processing research and industrial production environments.
• You have the ability to identify and address societally relevant challenges related to the circular economy.
• You have experience in scientific leadership and project management.
• You have a solid track record of receiving competitive external project/research funding.
• You have international networks and experience in international collaboration.
• Excellent communication skills in English, as well as excellent interpersonal skills, are essential.

We appreciate

• Knowledge of critical raw materials processing and traceability.
• Experience in circular economy applications and environmental impact assessment.
• Understanding of process digitalization and automation.

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 determined to renew our operations and expertise. We take care of our employees’ well-being with our wide range of activities that support well-being 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 5719-6094 per month for Associate Research Professor and EUR 6707-7147 per month for Research Professor. The salary is determined by the competence and the career path phase of the person selected for the position.

Other details

The successful applicant will be selected to a permanent Senior Scientist position and appointed to a professor position (either Research Professor or Associate Research Professor) for a period of five years with the possibility of continuation to a second 5-year term or permanent appointment to a research professorship. The preferred starting date is 1.4.2026 or by agreement. The position includes a probationary period.

For more information about the position, please contact Director (Science and Innovations), Dr. Saku Vuori 13.10.2025 14:00-16:00 (tel. +358 29 503 0216), or your future supervisor, Head of Unit (Circular Economy Solutions), Dr. Marja Lehtonen, 10.10.2025 14:30-16:00 (tel. +358 29 503 2183).

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 in English through the valtiolle.fi-service latest on 17.10.2025 at 16:15 (EET), using service key 15315.

Your application should include:

• scientific resume/CV
• list of publications
• a motivation letter, including brief summaries of research activities carried out so far (with aspects of customer interface work, societal impact of research, and dissemination of research results)
• a concise research plan illustrating your future research activities at GTK
• the names and contact information of 3 referees

The interviews are scheduled to take place in November.

We may conduct a personal background check of the person selected to the position if the person allows it (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). For more information about the security clearance process and the rights of the subject of the background check, visit www.supo.fi.

The recruitment process will include an aptitude assessment and a scientific assessment, involving a scientific lecture and external peer assessment.

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

Apply for the position