Doctoral Researcher in Mathematical Logic

The Helsinki Logic Group is recruiting a PhD student interested in completing a PhD in mathematical logic. The position is part of the research project “Logic and Computation over Semirings” funded by the Academy of Finland, which is led by Professor Juha Kontinen. The position is for a fixed term of 1.9.2026-31.8.2030, with some flexibility regarding the starting date. There will be a trial period of six months at the beginning of the employment. The application deadline is July 31, 2026.

Job description
The selected candidate will carry out research on the interface between logic and computation in classical and algebraic frameworks. This is an active area within logic in computer science and database 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 conferences and journals. The position includes funding to attend conferences and make research visits abroad. The appointment includes teaching and public engagement duties comprising 10% of the annual working time.
Who are we looking for

The doctoral researcher shall have a Master's degree or equivalent in a suitable field, preferably in logic, 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 which has to be obtained within the probationary period of six months of their appointment, 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 as a member of the Helsinki Logic 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. 2700-2800 euros/month. 

How to apply
Applications shall be submitted through the University of Helsinki´s recruitment system and include the following documents:
• A curriculum vitae, including a possible list of publications (max. 1 pages)
• A motivation letter outlining why you are the right person for the task (max. 1 page)
• Transcripts from previous degrees
• 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 July 31, 2026 (at 23:59 UTC + 3).

External applicants, please submit your application via the Apply Now button.

Internal applicants, who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment/grant/visitor contract, please submit your application via the Employee login button.

Further information
For more information on the position, please contact Professor Juha Kontinen (juha.kontinen(at)helsinki.fi). Please note that, due to the summer vacation period, responses to inquiries may be delayed.  

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.