Doctoral researcher, Information Studies, Faculty of Humanities

We are now looking for 

A Doctoral Researcher

in Information Studies at the Faculty of Humanities.

Information Studies is part of the Information and Communication Studies Unit which belongs to the History, Culture and Communication Studies Research Unit at the Faculty of Humanities. Currently, the Unit of Information Studies and Communication brings together two professors, two university lecturers, two salaried doctoral researchers, as well as researchers working in various research projects. The research conducted in the unit addresses complex societal issues—such as sustainability, health and well-being, emerging technologies, and security—through perspectives including information literacy and practices, knowledge management and creation, and scholarly and science communication.

About the job

We are now seeking a Doctoral Researcher for the project 'Everyday Encounters with Propaganda', which explores perceptions and experiences of propaganda, particularly from the perspective of young people. The research is qualitative and employs participatory methods. Young participants are invited to share and document their experiences through interviews and diaries. In addition, some participants will be invited to act as co-researchers, actively contributing to data collection, analysis, and reporting. The aim of the project is to better understand how young people recognize, interpret, and respond to contemporary propaganda both online and offline. At the same time, the project seeks to develop new ways of studying propaganda through the lens of everyday information practices. The results will support the development of strategies to counter harmful manipulation, particularly by strengthening media and information literacy.

• As a doctoral researcher, your main task is to carry out your doctoral research–including building a theoretical framework, collecting data, analyzing results, and writing your dissertation–as well as to complete your doctoral studies.
• You will also contribute to other project-related tasks such as applying for research funding and engaging in societal outreach.
• Your specific responsibilities will be defined based on your expertise and interests.
• In addition to your research, you will participate in the shared activities of the Unit of Information and Communication Studies. You will also contribute to teaching, but this will not exceed 5% of your total working time.

What we offer? 

• Your principal supervisor for the doctoral dissertation will be Professor Noora Hirvonen, who will support your work together with other researchers involved in the project.
• You will become part of the close-knit INSPIRES research community and gain access to the development and career opportunities offered by a large organization.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.

Who are you? 

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you:  

• A Master's degree in Information Studies or another applicable field (e.g., Social Sciences, Communication Studies). The degree must be completed before the start of the employment.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
• Good interpersonal skills
• Meeting the requirements of University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS) to apply for doctoral study rights

We also appreciate

• Proficiency in Finnish
• Proficiency in Swedish and/or other languages
• Experience working with young people
• Familiarity with the themes and/or research methods of the project 
• A proactive working approach

Salary

The position is fixed-term for three (3) years starting from 1st of January 2026 (or as agreed).

The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 2600-3200 € per month (before taxes).  A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 9th of November 2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system. 
The application should include the following:

1. Application letter (2-3 pages), in which you (a) describe your motivation for applying for the doctoral researcher position and what you hope to gain from the role, (b) reflect on how your experience, strengths, and interests support your ability to work in the position, and (c) outline your research interests related to the Everyday Encounters with Propaganda project.
2. CV following the Template of the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity
3. Degree certificates
4. Contact information of two persons available for recommendation

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from different backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders and members of different language, cultural or minority groups.  

Contact information 

If you have any further questions, please contact Professor Noora Hirvonen, Information Studies, Faculty of Humanities, University of Oulu, noora.hirvonen@oulu.fi, +358 50 322 7851.