Researcher in Social Sciences

Institution: Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki
Position Type: Fixed-term (2–3 years)
Start Date: 1 January 2026 (or as agreed)
Application Deadline: 26 October 2025

About the Project

The position is part of the SUSCON project, funded by the Research Council of Finland (2024–2029), which maps the understudied field of consultants advising companies and organizations on sustainability issues. The project investigates how sustainability consultants position themselves in relation to just and sustainable change in Finland, Sweden, and Belgium. It also examines how different aspects of sustainability, such as ecological and social sustainability, intersect in their work. Research material for this ethnographic project includes media ethnography, interviews with consultants, and observation of their work. The project is led by Inna Perheentupa.

About the Post

The appointee will:

• Produce research material in Belgium (media and online ethnography, interviews, observation)

• Spend periods of time in Belgium, especially during Fall 2026

• Work closely with the Principal Investigator to implement the project

• Publish articles independently and jointly based on empirical material

• Participate in project communications, organize project events, and perform other project-related tasks

• Contribute to teaching (up to 5% of annual working time)

The position is primarily for a doctoral researcher pursuing a PhD thesis, but postdoctoral candidates with relevant qualifications and experience may also apply for a shorter fixed term of approximately 27 months.

Qualifications and Selection Criteria

Doctoral Candidate:

• Master’s degree in sociology or a field relevant to the research topic (e.g., EU studies, sustainability, or gender studies)

• Proven ability and motivation to pursue postgraduate studies and a doctoral degree according to the study plan and research proposal

• Must secure the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki by the start of the appointment or within the six-month probationary period

Postdoctoral Researcher:

• Doctoral degree in sociology or a field relevant to the research topic

• Strong qualitative methods skills

• Highly motivated to pursue an academic career

Additional Qualifications:

• Excellent analytical and writing skills

• Ability to work independently and conduct research aligned with the project’s key themes

• Experience in consultation, sustainability, or sustainability consulting is welcome

• Experience in qualitative and ethnographic research is preferred

• Language skills (e.g., French, German, Dutch, or Swedish) are appreciated

• Must reside in Finland during employment

What We Offer

• Attractive workplace with opportunities to shape research trajectory

• Support for publishing, networking, and interdisciplinary collaboration

• Feedback from the SUSCON research team and wider faculty research community

• Participation in Centre for Sociology of Democracy seminars

• Annual gross salary: €31,500–€41,000 (doctoral researcher); €45,000–€51,000 (postdoctoral researcher), depending on qualifications and experience

• Comprehensive employee services including occupational healthcare and professional development opportunities

• Six-month probationary period

How to Apply

Submit your application through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System. Include the following PDF documents:

1. Letter of motivation describing interest and suitability (max. 1 page)

2. Research plan (1,500–2,000 words)

3. Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages)

4. List of potential publications

5. Recommendations from up to two referees with contact details

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in the first and second week of November.

Contact:
Dr. Inna Perheentupa, inna.perheentupa@helsinki.fi
HR Specialist Minna Maunula, hr-socialsciences@helsinki.fi
Technical support: rekrytointi@helsinki.fi

Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Helsinki promotes a diverse and equitable study and work culture and encourages all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Work for the world
Science has the power to change the world. Join an international community united through bold thinking, research, and learning, with over 30,000 students and 8,000 employees. The University values truth, education, freedom, and inclusivity, and is committed to work that truly matters.

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