Postdoctoral researcher in cultural memory studies (NARS)
The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Helsinki invites applications for the position of
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN CULTURAL MEMORY STUDIES AT THE CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN NATIONALISM RESEARCH IN THE HUMANITIES (NARS)
The fixed-term appointment is for 36 months, starting in September 2026.
This position is based in the CoE NARS research group “Nationalism Beyond Borders” (PI: Ulla Savolainen) in the Department of Cultures, Folklore Studies, and is funded by the Research Council of Finland. The group investigates the role of memory in shaping national allegiances in multi- and transnational contexts and examines how cultural remembrance constructs group belonging and exclusion. CoE NARS brings together four teams at the Finnish Literature Society, the University of Helsinki, Tampere University, and Åbo Akademi University to study nationalism through the lenses of historical research and cultural memory studies. We approach nationalism as a complex human phenomenon whose functions and intensity shift and vary over time. Rather than treating nationalism solely as a political ideology, we analyze its practical operations and its effects on the lives of different groups.
RESPONSIBILITIES
We seek postdoctoral researcher with expertise in cultural memory studies and nationalism research. The postdoctoral researcher will carry out an independent research project as part of the University of Helsinki team and CoE NARS activities. Proposed projects are not limited by geography or research material but should focus on transnational or border contexts and employ memory studies approaches to nationalism. The role also includes teaching (5%), organizing workshops and seminars, developing future research projects, and applying for external research funding.
The start date is 1 September 2026. The appointee is expected to reside in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area during the employment.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EVALUATION
Applicants are required to hold a PhD in a relevant field, such as memory studies, folklore studies, ethnology, cultural studies, media studies, anthropology, or a related discipline. They should have a strong track record and documented ability to conduct independent research, with excellent written and spoken English and a proven ability to communicate and publish research in English. The ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team is essential, as are strong collaboration skills.
This is a qualification-oriented position on the academic career path, typically held 3–5 years after the PhD. Therefore, candidates should have completed their doctorate no more than four years before the start of employment. For well-justified reasons (e.g., parental leave, military or civil service), this limit may be extended.
Selection will be based on an overall assessment of the proposed research project’s quality, the applicant’s development potential, and their ability to carry out the duties. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
WHAT WE OFFER
The successful candidate will join a vibrant research community at CoE NARS and the Faculty of Humanities. The three-year position offers an excellent opportunity to conduct independent research in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment and to advance academic qualifications. The position includes funding for conference travel and networking.
The starting gross monthly salary is €3,700–€4,000, depending on experience and qualifications. The employment contract includes a six-month probationary period. Staff benefits include occupational health and fitness services, professional development opportunities, and a first-class research and teaching environment with strong support for international collaboration. Learn more about staff benefits on our website.
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit your application, together with the required documents, through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the link “Apply now” (“Hae nyt”). Applicants who are currently employed by the University of Helsinki are requested to submit their application via the SAP Fiori portal. The closing date for applications is May 20, 2026.
The applicants are requested to provide the following documents written in English with their application:
- A statement of motivation for applying for the position, or how you would contribute to the project and a description of your core skills (Max 1 page)
- A curriculum vitae with contact information for two references
- A list of publications with key publications relevant to the position highlighted
- Research plan including timetable and publication plan, and a brief vision for career development (Max 4 pages)
Guidelines for the CV and the list of publications are available here.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information about the position, please contact University Lecturer Ulla Savolainen (ulla.savolainen@helsinki.fi).