Doctoral Researcher in the Social Sciences at the University of Helsinki 2026: Fully Funded PhD Opportunity on Migration, Platform Work and Digital Labor in Finland
The University of Helsinki invites applications for a fully funded Doctoral Researcher in the Social Sciences position under the MAPS research project. Successful candidates will undertake an article-based PhD focusing on migration, platform work, and digital labor.
Overview
The University of Helsinki is offering a 3.5-year fully funded Doctoral Researcher position in the Social Sciences as part of the MAPS (Mapping Fragmented Labor in the Platformised Service Sector through Migrant Epistemologies) research project. Hosted by the Swedish School of Social Sciences and funded by the Research Council of Finland, the role begins on 1 October 2026. The selected researcher will conduct independent ethnographic and empirical research on platform labor and migration while completing an article-based PhD.
Benefits
- Fixed-term employment contract for 3.5 years starting 1 October 2026.
- Comprehensive employee package including standard Finnish pension benefits and occupational healthcare.
- Opportunities to collaborate with internationally recognized researchers and participate in an interdisciplinary academic network.
- Limited teaching responsibilities accounting for up to 5% of annual working time.
Eligibility
- Must hold a Master's degree in a relevant field such as sociology, human geography, cultural studies, social and cultural anthropology, or another closely related discipline.
- Must already possess the right to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki before employment begins, or obtain these rights within the six-month probationary period.
- Demonstrated strength in academic writing, independent thinking, analytical ability, and motivation for ethnographic research.
- Requirement to reside in Finland during the employment period.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a complete application package consisting of the following PDF documents:
- Motivation Letter: Maximum one page describing interest in the project, relevant background, and suitability.
- Research Plan: Maximum two pages including a bibliography, detailing the proposed doctoral research, methodology, and relevance to the MAPS project.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed academic CV highlighting education, research experience, publications, and skills.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews during August 2026.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 10 August 2026 at 23:59 Helsinki Time.