Postdoctoral Researcher for Hybrid Intelligence - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are now looking for

Postdoctoral Researcher, fixed term (in between 1.1.2024-31.12.2027)

Welcome to join us in the Hybrid Intelligence: Human-AI Co-evolution and Learning in multi-realities (HI) research programme at the University of Oulu. The programme is part of our national profiling actions supported by the Academy of Finland. HI stands on the fundamental research on emotion AI, learning processes and perception engineering for AI-based solutions e.g. in education and nursing. HI research combines the strengths of both humans and machines, emphasizing mutual understanding and learning from each other in their co-evolution. We propose building the metaverse idea by combining our physical and virtual realities towards a multi-reality. The programme focuses on international top-level collaborative and multidisciplinary research, supported by unique LeaF, a learning and interaction research infrastructure and its new Ethics Forum and Data Forum, which will establish a new deep cross-cutting HI discussion in ethical and responsible ways. HI aspires to scientific leadership in solving global challenges by facilitating human-human and human-technology interaction, understanding and collaboration for the human capital behind AI. With its’ international networks HI will pave the way towards breakthroughs in how humans and machines interact and understand and learn from each other. HI will recruit new talented international researchers to bolster the scientific profile at the University of Oulu and initiate new collaborations with companies.

The postdoctoral position will be placed in the Faculty of Medicine in nursing science. We invite applications from candidates across fields and disciplines who have strong research skills in health sciences, and who are interested in pursuing work across and beyond disciplinary boundaries.

About the job

We are calling for proposals dealing with the theme:  Emerging sustainable effects on the quality of life, especially contributing implication how HI can impact wellbeing and utilize technology in new areas for quality of life, e.g, to improve health care with enhancement of augmented care and development of advanced continuous education. This theme will work with various underserved people and stakeholders to develop adaptive platforms implementing HI. It provides feedback to HI1-HI3 via cyclic processes which helps to push forward positive effects and mitigate negative ones in future development.

We expect that these temporary positions will contribute to the Hybrid Intelligence research program themes regarding new research results, publications, and/or writing research funding proposals.

As a postdoctoral or doctoral researcher, you will 

• Engage in writing and submitting applications for research funding.
• Collaborate in service to the HI programme, faculty, and university. 
• Contribute to HI research publications.
• Actively participate in HI program activities and development.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of people where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network to support you and close-ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• We have a HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. 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?

We expect from you:

• For a postdoctoral researcher, a doctoral degree in a relevant field, that was awarded not more than ten years ago. 
• A transdisciplinary research orientation with demonstrated research experience or interest.
• Capacity to collaborate in research and research dissemination activities.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills in English.

We also appreciate:

1) Scientific merit, including publications and CV in line with the applicant’s career stage and discipline, and potential to attract external funding.
2) Feasibility of the research plan and its suitability to the work of HI research programme. 
3) The extent and nature of transdisciplinary in the proposed research plan. 
4) National and international networks. 
5) Societal relevance.

Salary

The positions are fixed term starting earliest 1.1.2024, counting four years from the starting day. A trial period of 6 months is applied in the position.

For postdoctoral researchers, the salary will be based on levels 5-6 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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). Starting gross salary will be approx. 3500-4000 € per month (before taxes).   

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 28.10.2023 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

• Motivation letter, 1-2 pg. indicating how the applicant will contribute to the HI research program.
• Brief research plan (max. 3 pages, excluding references) outlining the research you plan to carry out during the four years of the position.
• CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity: 
• List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland: 
• Certificates/Diplomas: Scanned copy of the original doctoral degree certificate. Doctoral candidates at the defending stage (defending must take place in early spring 2024) may also apply and must provide the main supervisor’s statement about their progress. The employment of a post-doctoral position may be started only after graduation of a doctoral degree.

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

Only applications containing all relevant appendices and submitted through the online recruitment system by the deadline will be considered. The selection process follows the University of Oulu’s recruitment guidelines and is carried out by a nominated recruitment committee. Candidates will be evaluated based on their overall qualifications and experience, suitability to the work of HI research programme, potential as leading researchers and ability to collaborate and work with others.

The candidates who are considered most suitable will be invited to an on-site or remote interview.
All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

Contact Information 

If you have any further questions, please get in touch with HI coordinator Satu Kaleva, satu.kaleva(at)oulu.fi, and Professor Kristina Mikkonen, kristina.mikkonen(at)oulu.fi

Edited: Application time extended on 27.10.2023 from 28.10.2023 to 11.11.2023