Doctoral Researchers (30 positions) in various disciplines at the University of Helsinki, Finland
Doctoral Researchers (30 positions) in various disciplines at the University of Helsinki, Finland
The University of Helsinki Doctoral School (UHDS) invites applications for 30 salaried doctoral researcher positions in various disciplines. The positions are four‑year fixed‑term, full‑time employment contracts, starting between 1 January and 31 March 2027.
The positions are part of an international, interdisciplinary RESDOC doctoral training project, co‑funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND scheme and the University of Helsinki.
About the position
Doctoral researchers will:
- Conduct full‑time doctoral research leading to the completion of a PhD degree
- Be enrolled in one of the 14 doctoral programmes of the University of Helsinki corresponding to their research field
- Work as part of an international and multidisciplinary RESDOC doctoral training project
- Receive academic supervision from leading researchers in their respective fields
Research includes temporary secondments or research visits outside the University of Helsinki in RESDOC associated partner organizations when separately agreed. The employment contract will always be concluded with the University of Helsinki.
What we offer
RESDOC is an interdisciplinary doctoral training project structured around four themes under which candidates’ research topic must fit: (i) Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance in Changing Environment, (ii) Biodiversity and Nature’s Resilience, (iii) Secure and Sustainable Food and Water Systems, and (iv) Just Socio‑Ecological Transition. It combines world‑class research with training in AI, systems thinking, and innovation, while building essential expertise in sustainable development, social responsibility, risk management, and policy frameworks. Through strong international and intersectoral collaboration, RESDOC equips doctoral researchers to create impactful, equitable solutions across academia, industry, and society.
- Employment in an international, multidisciplinary research community
- High‑quality research infrastructure and professional support services
- Support for relocation and integration into Finland and the University of Helsinki
- A competitive salary in accordance with MSCA COFUND principles
- Comprehensive occupational health care and staff benefits
Salary and employment conditions
- Duration: 4 years (fixed‑term) 2027-2030, including a six‑month trial period
- Location: Doctoral researchers are expected to reside in Finland during their employment, which can start only after arriving to Finland.
- Salary: approximately €2,900 gross salary per month. Taxes are deducted automatically. Net salary depends on personal tax rate Tax rate calculator - Open MyTax. Salary is determined according to Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND principles.
- A family or special needs allowance may be paid where applicable.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must fulfil all these mandatory eligibility criteria set by MSCA COFUND programme at the call deadline by 31 August 2026:
- Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualifying for doctoral studies
- Not hold a PhD degree
- Be an early‑stage researcher (less than 4 years of research experience)
- Comply with the MSCA mobility rule (not more than 12 months in Finland in the 36 months preceding the call deadline)
- Propose a research topic fitting the RESDOC themes and supervision
- Not be permanently employed by the University of Helsinki
- Fulfil English language requirements according to University of Helsinki’s requirements
- Be willing to reside in Finland for the full 4‑year duration
Selection process
Applications will be assessed based on:
- The eligibility criteria set by MSCA COFUND and University of Helsinki Doctoral School
- The quality, feasibility, and relevance of the research plan
- Academic performance and motivation demonstrated in previous studies or other relevant experience
- Suitability of the research topic for the RESDOC thematic areas and doctoral programmes of University of Helsinki
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interviews.
Successful candidates must receive the study right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki no later than during the six-month trial period of employment.
How to apply
- Application deadline 31 August 2026 23:59 EET Eastern European Time
- Applications must be submitted via the University of Helsinki online recruitment system only
- Due to restricted system access, applicants residing in Iran are kindly requested to contact
resdoc-dp@helsinki.fi for instructions on submitting their application
Academic alignment interviews online will be carried out in October for shortlisted candidates. Applicants will be notified of the results by the end of November 2026.
About the University of Helsinki
The University of Helsinki is Finland’s largest and oldest academic institution, ranked among the leading research universities in Europe. Approximately 500 doctoral degrees are awarded annually across all disciplines. The University hosts 14 doctoral programmes, covering a broad range of research fields. Doctoral researchers are integrated into high‑quality research environments and benefit from excellent infrastructure, supervision, and international networks.
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.
Further information
- Guide for applicants
- Find out more about RESDOC doctoral training project, requirements, and information on life in Finland
- For questions, assistance, or requests for adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact resdoc-dp@helsinki.fi
The RESDOC project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Grant Agreement No 101261796.