1-2 Doctoral Researchers in Number Theory
The brand-new Number Theory Research Group at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Helsinki is seeking 1-2 doctoral researchers to join a research project on analytic number theory. The work is part of the research project “Higher rank symmetries in analytic number theory” funded by the Academy of Finland and the Emil Aaltonen Foundation, which is led by Assistant Professor Jori Merikoski. The position is for a fixed term of three years, with flexibility regarding the starting date. The selected candidate can start as soon as possible during Spring 2026 but no later than September 2026. There will be a trial period of six months at the beginning of the employment.
Job description
The selected candidate will carry out research on the interface between automorphic forms, prime numbers, divisor functions, and L-functions. This is an active area within modern number theory with many possible research directions. The supervisor will help the selected candidate to choose appropriate research questions and acquire the required skills.
The position is fixed-term with the main purpose of preparing a dissertation related to the project in the Doctoral Programme in Science (SciDoc) of the University of Helsinki. The researcher will write scientific manuscripts on their results for publication in international peer-reviewed journals. The position includes funding to attend conferences and make research visits abroad.
Homepage of the project leader: https://sites.google.com/view/jorimerikoski/home
The new Number Theory research group at the University of Helsinki has close ties to the Number Theory group at the University of Turku led by Prof. Kaisa Matomäki https://users.utu.fi/ksmato/researchgroup/
Who are we looking for
The position requires expertise in analytic number theory or excellent capabilities to adopt it, with emphasis on the following topics: distribution of prime numbers and arithmetic functions, theory of zeta- and L-functions, and theory of automorphic forms. Competency in related areas of mathematics such as representation theory, Lie groups, or algebraic number theory is seen as an advantage.
The doctoral researcher shall have a Master's degree or equivalent in a suitable field, preferably in analytic number theory, by the time they start the work. Successful completion of the task requires the ability to conduct independent research and fluent English language skills.
The appointee should apply for the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki by the start of the appointment, or apply for the right and obtain it within the probationary period of six months of their appointment. If the candidate does not already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki, it must be applied for separately, please see: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-education/the-application-process-in-a-nutshell. For more information on degree requirements and the application process, please visit https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-school.
Working environment and benefits
The University of Helsinki offers a first-class research and teaching environment as well as a vibrant international working community (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki). A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our university.
We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You will also have a chance to contribute to the success and growth of the brand-new Number Theory Research Group. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and providing an opportunity for 6 weeks of paid annual leave.
The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. The University provides support for internationally recruited employees with their transition to work and live in Finland. For more on the University of Helsinki as an employer, please see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.
Finland is a member of the European Union, has high quality free schooling (also in English) and generous family benefits and healthcare. The Helsinki region feature leading research and innovation facilities, clean environment, affordable accommodation, and excellent international, national, and local transport connections. For more information, check living in Finland.
Salary
The salary will be based on level 2 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal work performance. The starting salary is typically ca. 2600-2700 euros/month.
How to apply
Please submit your application through the University of Helsinki´s recruitment system via the link “Apply for the position”. Applicants who are employees of the University of Helsinki are requested to leave their application by using the employee login.
Applicants must include in their application:
• A curriculum vitae, including a possible list of publications (max. 2 pages)
• A motivation letter outlining why you are the right person for the task (max. 2 page)
• A transcript of records
• Copy of your degree diploma or a statement when the degree will be completed
• Contact information of two persons who are willing to provide a reference letter by separate request.
The deadline for submitting the application is January 14, 2026 (at 23:59 UTC + 2).
Further information
For more information on the position, please contact Assistant Professor Jori Merikoski (jori.merikoski(at)helsinki.fi).
With questions related to the application process or the recruitment system, please contact recruitment(at)helsinki.fi.
***
The University of Helsinki, founded in 1640, is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research. The university has an international academic community of 40,000 students and staff members. It operates on four campuses in Helsinki and at 15 other locations.
As part of the Faculty of Science, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics of the University of Helsinki is the biggest university department of mathematical sciences in Finland. The department hosts several current ERC grants of the European Research Council and two Centres of Excellence of the Research Council of Finland.