The University of Helsinki, one of Europe’s leading research-intensive universities, has announced applications for 30 fully funded doctoral researcher positions across multiple disciplines through its RESDOC doctoral training programme. The positions are open to international candidates seeking to pursue a PhD in Finland and are supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND programme.
These four-year, full-time doctoral positions will commence between January and March 2027 and offer an opportunity for early-career researchers to undertake cutting-edge research within a globally recognized academic environment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer | University of Helsinki |
| Country | Finland |
| Location | Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland |
| Salary | Approximately €2,900 gross per month |
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2026* |
| Discipline | Environmental Science, Health Science, Life Science |
| Qualification Required | Master’s Degree or Equivalent |
Overview of the PhD Positions
The doctoral researcher positions are hosted by the University of Helsinki Doctoral School (UHDS) and are integrated into the RESDOC programme, an interdisciplinary doctoral training initiative focused on addressing major global sustainability and societal challenges.
Successful applicants will be enrolled in one of the University’s 14 doctoral programmes, depending on their research area, and will work under the supervision of internationally recognized experts.
Position Details
| Position Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of Positions | 30 |
| Institution | University of Helsinki |
| Location | Helsinki, Finland |
| Employment Type | Full-time |
| Contract Duration | Four years (2027–2030) |
| Starting Period | Between 1 January and 31 March 2027 |
| Salary | Approximately €2,900 gross per month |
| Qualification Required | Master’s degree or equivalent |
| Sector | Academia |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
Research Areas and Themes
Applicants are expected to propose research projects that align with one of the four major RESDOC thematic areas:
| Area | Focus |
|---|---|
| Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance in a Changing Environment | Emerging infectious diseases, pathogen evolution, antimicrobial resistance, and the effects of environmental change on public health. |
| Biodiversity and Nature’s Resilience | Ecosystem dynamics, conservation biology, environmental sustainability, biodiversity monitoring, and ecological adaptation. |
| Secure and Sustainable Food and Water Systems | Food security, agricultural sustainability, water resource management, climate resilience, and environmental biotechnology. |
| Just Socio-Ecological Transition | Sustainable development policies, environmental governance, social equity, climate adaptation, and transitions toward sustainable societies. |
What the Programme Offers
The RESDOC doctoral programme combines advanced research training with professional development opportunities designed to prepare researchers for careers in academia, industry, government, and international organizations.
Selected doctoral researchers will benefit from:
- Full-time salaried doctoral employment
- Supervision by leading researchers
- Access to world-class research infrastructure
- International and interdisciplinary research environment
- Training in artificial intelligence, systems thinking, and innovation
- Opportunities for research visits and secondments with partner organizations
- Relocation and integration support for international candidates
- Occupational healthcare and employee benefits
- Additional family or special-needs allowances where applicable
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for these positions, applicants must satisfy all MSCA COFUND requirements by the application deadline.
Candidates must:
- Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification that permits doctoral studies
- Not already possess a PhD degree
- Be classified as an early-stage researcher with less than four years of research experience
- Meet the MSCA mobility rule by not having resided or worked in Finland for more than 12 months during the 36 months preceding the application deadline
- Propose a research topic aligned with the RESDOC themes
- Meet the University of Helsinki’s English language requirements
- Be willing to relocate and reside in Finland throughout the programme
- Not hold permanent employment with the University of Helsinki
Selection Process
Applications will undergo a competitive evaluation based on:
- Compliance with eligibility criteria
- Scientific quality and feasibility of the proposed research project
- Academic achievements and research potential
- Motivation and relevant experience
- Alignment of the proposed project with RESDOC thematic priorities and doctoral programmes
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in online interviews during October 2026.
Final decisions are expected to be communicated by the end of November 2026.
Why Study at the University of Helsinki?
The University of Helsinki is Finland’s largest and oldest university and consistently ranks among the top research institutions in Europe. The university awards approximately 500 doctoral degrees annually and hosts a vibrant international research community spanning a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines.
Doctoral researchers gain access to advanced facilities, strong international collaborations, extensive academic networks, and a supportive environment that promotes research excellence and innovation.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki’s official online recruitment system before:
Deadline: 31 August 2026 (23:59 EET)
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility requirements, identify a suitable doctoral programme, and prepare a strong research proposal aligned with one of the RESDOC research themes.