The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Helsinki and Academy Research Fellow Maria Lahtinen invite applications for the position of
Doctoral Researcher in Archaelogy or Geoscience,
for a fixed-term position of three years. The position is full-time (fully funded) and will be based within the discipline of Archaeology in the Department of Cultures. The employment will commence on 1 January 2027 or as agreed.
Research Project
The position is funded by the Research Council of Finland project "Strontium Isotope Tools to Trace Mobility of Aquatic Diet in the Past, the Present, and the Future (SRTOOL)."
The successful applicant will focus on one of the following research topics:
A) Investigating the Origin and Use of Prehistoric Seals Using Strontium Isotope Analysis
This research stream focuses on archaeological materials and the application of strontium isotope analysis. The aim is to determine, through the analysis of burned animal bones, where seals were hunted. The project will also explore the significance of seal hunting for prehistoric communities. The research combines scientific and humanities-based approaches.
B) Investigating the Use of Strontium Isotope Analysis in Aquatic Materials
This research stream seeks to determine the strontium isotope signatures in various regions of the Baltic Sea and Finland's largest lakes and create baseline (isoscape) for the future studies. The project will also investigate whether large-scale temporal variation exists in strontium isotope compositions in major lake systems in the past. This research is primarily natural science-oriented.
Main Duties
- Conduct doctoral research and prepare a doctoral dissertation.
- Produce scientific publications related to the research project.
- Complete doctoral studies as part of the PhD programme.
- Independently carry out laboratory analyses.
- Perform statistical analyses.
- Apply GIS methods and software in research.
- Collaborate with other members of the research project.
- Participate in project activities, including meetings, seminars, workshops, and selected administrative tasks.
- Present research results at national and international conferences and other scientific events.
Please indicate in your application which of the two research topics you are applying for.
The most important qualification is interests on research and the ability and willingness to acquire new skills. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if they do not yet possess all the competencies in jobs listed above. The project leader will work closely with the selected candidate and will contribute complementary expertise to the research.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
To meet the basic requirements of the University of Helsinki's Doctoral Programme in the Humanities, applicants must:
- Meet the University's language requirements by demonstrating proficiency in Finnish, Swedish, or English. For this position, excellent written and spoken English is required.
- Hold a Master's degree or equivalent in a field relevant to the proposed doctoral research. Applicants who are close to completing their Master's degree are also encouraged to apply. Relevant topics can be for example geosciences or archaeological sciences.
- Be eligible to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki. Applicants who do not yet hold the right to pursue doctoral studies must apply for it separately. Continued employment is contingent upon obtaining doctoral study rights within the first six months of employment.
What We Offer
The position offers an opportunity to work in an inspiring, international, and multidisciplinary research environment. The salary is based on the Finnish university salary system for teaching and research staff at requirement level 2, plus a personal performance component. The starting gross salary is approximately €2,700 per month. The position includes a six-month probationary period.
The University of Helsinki offers a comprehensive range of employee benefits, including occupational healthcare services, professional development opportunities, support for research funding applications, and access to library and sports services.
Application Instructions
Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki's online recruitment system using the "Apply Now" button. Applicants currently employed by the University of Helsinki should submit their application through the SAP Fiori portal.
Please submit the following documents as a single PDF file:
- A motivation letter (maximum two pages) describing your interest in the position and outlining relevant experience.
- A curriculum vitae, including a list of publications (if applicable).
- Two letters of recommendation, including the referees' contact information.
Application Deadline
20 November 2026 at 23:59 (Finnish time)
Further Information
For further information about the position, please contact:
Maria Lahtinen Academy Research Fellow maria.lahtinen@helsinki.fi
For questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact: recruitment@helsinki.fi
The University of Helsinki welcomes applications from individuals of all genders, linguistic and cultural backgrounds, and minority groups.
