Doctoral Researcher - DIGICONNECT project

The Swedish School of Social Science and DIGICONNECT project of the University of Helsinki invite applications for the position of Doctoral Researcher for a fixed 2-year term starting on 1 January 2026 (or as agreed). Successful candidates are expected to work full-time.

The doctoral researcher position is part of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health funded DIGICONNECT research project at the University of Helsinki. DIGICONNECT project explores children and young persons' use and experiences of digital support. The project consists of multiple work packages where data will be collected from children, young people, professionals, and organizations working with children, young people and families. The research is conducted in partnership with three collaborating organizations: Mieli Ry, SOS-Children's Villages Finland, and Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County.

The doctoral researcher will be a member of a four-person DIGICONNECT research team and consortium led by Doctor of Social Science and Docent Harry Lunabba. Together with the team, the doctoral researcher will carry out the project from ethical reviewing and applying research permits further to data collection, analysis, writing and publishing. The doctoral researcher will be focusing on work package 1 that is conducted in collaboration with Mieli Ry. The specific content of the doctoral researcher's work package will be discussed among the team and agreed on at a later phase and more information about the work package’s contents can be asked from PI Harry Lunabba.

The duties also include teaching and other tasks. Teaching tasks can account for up to 5% of the annual working time.

Qualifications and selection criteria

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in a field that is relevant to the research topic (e.g. social work, social policy, sociology, media studies, digital humanities, child and youth studies).

The applicant should have a good command of qualitative research methods and relevant software (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti). The applicant benefits from previous experience or interest with digital research methods, online ethnography, or youth-focused research. Excellent interpersonal skills and abilities to work effectively with children and young persons are essential for this position.

Fluency in Finnish and English language is required in this position. The administrative language at the Swedish School of Social Science is Swedish. English is used as a supplementary language. Other requirements include proven ability and motivation, demonstrated through previous degree studies or otherwise, to pursue postgraduate studies.

The appointee is expected to apply for and obtain the study right for a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki within the probationary period of six months of their appointment.

What we offer

By completing the doctoral research as part of the DIGICONNECT project, the appointee will have a unique opportunity to interact with a large number of junior and senior researchers based in several faculties of the University of Helsinki and their international networks, particularly in the emerging field of digital youth research.

The University of Helsinki is an equal opportunity employer and offers an attractive and diverse workplace in an inspiring environment with a variety of development opportunities and benefits. The monthly gross salary will range from approximately 2640 – 2800 € depending on their qualifications and experience. The employment contract will include a probationary period of six months.

In addition, University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and opportunities for professional development.

How to apply

Applicants are requested to enclose with their application the following documents in English:
1.    A curriculum vitae (max 2 pages)
2.    A list of publications or description of the Master’s thesis and its grade if the applicant doesn’t yet have any publications
3.    Letter of motivation describing the candidate's interest and suitability to the project (up to 1000 words)
4.    Recommendation from up to two referees and their contact details

Detailed information on the CV and list of publications can be obtained on University of Helsinki webpage.

Please submit your application, together with the required attachments, through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the link "Apply now" below. Applicants who are currently employed by the University of Helsinki are requested to submit their application via the “Employee login” button below.

The closing date for the applications is 22.10.2025.

Further information

Further information about the position may be obtained from Doctor of Social Science and Docent Harry Lunabba and Doctor of Social Science Tiina Valkendorff.

If you have any questions, need assistance, or require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact HR Specialist Minna Toivonen – we are here to support you.

About us

Swedish School of Social Science is an autonomous unit at the University of Helsinki, with a research profile that combines interdisciplinary research on Nordic welfare and ethnic relations.

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.
 
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