Senior Scientist (geoenergy surveys)

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

Senior Scientist (geoenergy surveys)

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) is seeking a Senior Scientist to join its geoenergy research team within the Energy and Construction Solutions unit. Your primary location can be in Espoo, Kokkola, Kuopio or Rovaniemi, with the possibility of partial remote work within Finland. Your main task will be to apply your in-depth geoscientific expertise to research, development projects and client assignments related to geothermal energy and bedrock gases, particularly natural hydrogen.

You will be responsible for securing research funding, as well as planning and implementing both domestic and international client assignments. You will act both as a specialist and as a project manager in commissioned and jointly funded research and development projects. In addition, you will contribute to the shared competence development and methodological innovation of GTK’s geoenergy group. You will publish your research results in peer-reviewed scientific journals, international conferences, research reports, and workshops. You will utilise and expand your networks in geothermal energy to support the development of our project activities. The duties can be partly tailored to match the selected candidate’s specific expertise and interests.

You will be working in the Energy and Construction Solutions unit, which consists of around 45 experts specialising in areas such as final disposal of nuclear waste, site selection, geothermal energy, gas potential of the bedrock and research methods (particularly hydrogen), as well as engineering geology. The geoenergy group you will be joining currently includes 11 specialists.

Education, experience and skills expected of the applicant

• A doctoral degree in geosciences or another relevant field applicable to the position
• In-depth understanding of the potential and utilisation of geothermal energy, including related research methods, and the ability to apply this expertise in diverse geological settings
• Strong experience in geothermal energy research and development, as well as scientific publishing
• Peer-reviewed scientific publications within the past five years
• Proven experience in leading projects and/or securing research funding
• Willingness and ability to travel both within Finland and internationally (typically ranging from 2 weeks to 2 months per year)
• Fluent written and spoken English skills

Education, experience and skills that are appreciated

• Interest in studying Finnish / Knowledge of Finnish language
• Expertise in bedrock geology
• Experience in heat transfer modelling in bedrock and/or groundwater
• Use of artificial intelligence/machine learning methods in geoscientific research
• Understanding of geophysical methods
• Knowledge of hydrogeology and/or hydrogeochemistry

Personal qualities desired from the applicant

You are a proactive and responsible team player who is committed to the success of the whole team. You recognise your strengths and are open-minded about developing your skills further. You possess strong collaboration and networking skills. You are capable of prioritising tasks and working in a systematic manner within given deadlines, even in a dynamic operating environment.

What 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 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 total salary at the beginning of employment will be EUR 5 022 – 5 352 per month. The salary is determined by the competence of the person selected for the position.

Other details

The position is permanent. The starting date is 13.10.2025 or by agreement. The position includes a probationary period.

For further information, please contact your future supervisor Nina Leppäharju, tel. +358 29 503 2285 reachable on 5.8. at 12 – 15 EEST and on 6.8. at 9 – 12 EEST or Chief Expert Teppo Arola tel. +358 29 503 2207 reachable on 7.8. at 9 – 11 EEST and on 8.8. at 12 – 14 EEST.

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 11.8.2025 at 16:15 EEST, using service key 14184.

The interviews are scheduled to take place in late August.

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

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