Project Researcher, History, Culture and Communication Studies, Faculty of Humanities

We are now looking for

a Project Researcher

to join us in History, Culture and Communication Studies Research Unit (HIKUVIE) within the Faculty of Humanities for a fixed-term position lasting until 31.5.2026 (full time) or 30.9.2026 (part time, 50%). HIKUVIE includes the following disciplines: Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, History, History of Sciences and Ideas, and Information and Communication Studies.

The Faculty of Humanities was recently awarded funding through the NOSTE programme from the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS) to improve the work-life relevance of doctoral training for researchers in HIKUVIE. A committee representing HIKUVIE is leading this effort, which will include an initial research component followed by strategic planning for organizational change which is aimed to improve the educational, professional, and personal outcomes of doctoral researchers in the Faculty.

About the job

As a project researcher, you will work in the data collection and writing of this NOSTE project that is focused on the doctoral experiences and career pathways of former University of Oulu doctoral students.

For this effort, you will:

• compile a complete list of former doctoral students who have received their PhD degree since 2010, as well as names of as many people as possible who started but did not finish their degrees;
• develop and issue a web survey (Finnish and English versions) to HIKUVIE alumni;
• analyse the results of the web survey;
• conduct semi-structured interviews with HIKUVIE alumni, focusing on their experiences as doctoral students and their professional trajectory after completing (or abandoning) their PhDs;
• write up a report of cumulative findings for review by HIKUVIE staff and Faculty administrators.

The Unit’s project committee will provide limited oversight and support of the project researcher in the above duties, with regular check-ins. The project researcher is thus expected to work with a high degree of independence and autonomy.

What we offer

• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being, and flexible multi-location and remote work opportunities. Read more about other staff benefits.
• Work-life balance: we don't count Saturdays as holiday periods!
• Development and career options of the big organisation.
• Work that matters! Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu!

Who are you?

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

• to hold a Master's degree in Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, History, History of Sciences and Ideas, Information and Communication Studies, or other relevant field. A Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the position;
• to be fluent in written and spoken Finnish and English;
• to have qualitative social research experience;
• to have basic competencies in quantitative analysis of survey data.

We also appreciate:

• if you are currently pursuing doctoral studies or have recently completed a doctoral degree;
• a good knowledge of the doctoral studies process of the University of Oulu.

Salary

The position is fixed term starting from 1.2.2026 (or as agreed) until 31.5.2026 (full time) or 30.9.2026 (part time, 50%).

The salary will be based on the levels 7-8 of the demand level chart for other expert and support 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. 2800-3300 EUR per month (before taxes). A trial period is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 15.12.2025 through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

• Cover letter (no more than 2 pages)
• CV
• Certificates / Diplomas
• 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 in English. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

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

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Dr Élise Lépy (elise.lepy@oulu.fi) and Dr Tracy Hruska (tracy.hruska@oulu.fi).