Doctoral Researcher, Information Processing Science, Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering

We are now looking for

a Doctoral Researcher

to join us in the field of Information Processing Science at the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering. The position is part of the RISK-AI project, which focuses on the responsible and trustworthy use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare across the Nordic and Baltic regions, within the evolving European regulatory landscape, which includes the AI Act and European Health Data Spaces (EHDS).

About the job

As a Doctoral Researcher, you will conduct post-graduate research toward achieving a doctoral thesis in a multidisciplinary research environment. Your research will contribute to the project’s main research question: How can organizations better identify, understand, and manage AI risks in healthcare in ways that enhance trustworthiness and support responsible use of AI?

The project addresses the urgent need for healthcare organizations to develop knowledge and capacity to comply with the EU AI Act and related legislation, and to respond to societal expectations for the responsible use of AI in healthcare. One of the key expectations of the RISK-AI project is to conceptualize the concept of “responsible risk” by integrating heterogeneous risk components introduced by AI (clinical, social, organizational, and technical) with best practices for risk assessment, tailored to the organizational context and AI maturity. The project lasts between 1.1.2026 – 31.12.2028.

In this position, you will:

Design, plan, and conduct doctoral-level research to identify, assess, and manage AI-related risks in healthcare organizations, with a focus on capacity-building strategies and organizational readiness. Contribute to the development and refinement of the responsible risk concept and its practical applicability, enhancing understanding of the concept among different stakeholders in AI use.

• Contribute to identifying how capacity can be built and delivered to different stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem, creating validated tools and methods for skills and capacity building around responsible risk.
• Participate in project activities promoting AI literacy and responsible AI adoption among healthcare stakeholders.
• Collaborate with academic and societal partners and contribute to research dissemination through publications and presentations.
• Collaborate with academic and societal partners and take an active role in drafting and publishing scientific articles (at least 4 articles), as well as presenting research outcomes at scientific events.

What we offer

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic research community, 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. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research-quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

What we require from you

•  A Master’s degree in Information Processing Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, Health Informatics, or another field relevant to the project scope. A Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher's work.
• Very good written and spoken English skills. English skills must be demonstrated in accordance with the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS) requirements.
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate

• Basic knowledge of the Finnish language.
• Proven capability to conduct research independently in the areas of AI, healthcare digitalization, responsible technology use, or other areas related to the project scope.
• Prior experience working in an international and multidisciplinary research environment.
• Knowledge of AI governance, risk management, trustworthy AI, or EU AI regulation (AI Act) and related EU regulations.
• Experience in qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method research (e.g., interviews, surveys, case studies, or design science).
• Understanding of healthcare contexts, clinical decision-making, or digital health systems, preferably in the EU and Nordic context.
• Ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders such as healthcare personnel, administrators, policy makers, and other stakeholders. 

Salary

The position is fixed-term for three years, starting on the 1st of March 2026.

The salary for the position is 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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approximately. 2600-2900 € per month (before taxes). As the thesis work progresses, the salary will be revised in accordance with the universities' Collective Agreement. A 6-month trial period applies to the position.

How to apply?

If you are interested in the position, please apply through our recruitment system by 20 February, 2026. The application should be written in English and include the following:

• 1 page cover letter including a brief statement of your motivation to work as a doctoral researcher in the RISK-AI project and a short biography presenting your professional experience and educational background relevant to the position.
• Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages) following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity. Include a list of your publications (if any) and the contact information for two professional references who are available for a recommendation.
• A short research plan (max. 2 pages) proposing your approach to address the following questions in your doctoral research:
  • Which dimensions of AI risk would your research focus on (e.g., clinical, organizational, social, technical, regulatory) and why?
  • How would your research contribute to the conceptualization and operationalization of “Responsible Risk” in healthcare?
  • What are the expected implications and impact of your research approach for responsible AI use in healthcare?

Eligible applicants who best fit the position's profile will be invited to an interview. All applicants will be notified about the results during the selection process.

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

Contact Information

If you have any further questions about the content of the research or the duties of the position, please contact: sharon.guardadomedina@oulu.fi, ITEE, Information Processing Science, University of Oulu.

If you have any questions regarding working in the University of Oulu, please contact: anna.sachinopoulou@oulu.fi, ITEE, Information Processing Science, University of Oulu.