Doctoral Researcher, Safety and Security in Artificial Intelligence

We are now looking for

Doctoral Researcher

to join us in the Biomimetics and Intelligent Systems Group (BISG) at the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering. BISG conducts internationally acknowledged multidisciplinary research in the areas of Data Analysis, Robotics, Secure Programming, and Bio-IT. The application areas of our research include optimization of industrial manufacturing processes, Industry 4.0, health and well-being systems, environmental monitoring with mobile robots, dependable Internet of Things (IoT), and seamless artificial-natural systems.

This doctoral researcher position is part of the strategic spearhead projects funded by Infotech Oulu for the years 2026-2028. Infotech is one of the four multidisciplinary research centers at the University of Oulu. This specific project is titled: AIVuTeP - Open Source Artificial Intelligence Vulnerability Testing Platform.

About the job

• As a doctoral researcher in the AIVuTeP project, you will study security and safety as AI ethics requirements and the role of AI vulnerability testing in satisfying them.
• On a theoretical level, your research will study the discourse surrounding AI vulnerabilities, aiming to identify and clarify vaguely defined concepts to facilitate better understanding and communication across communities.
• On a practical level, your research will monitor and analyze recorded AI incidents to understand the nature and magnitude of real-world harm caused by security and safety issues and vulnerabilities in AI systems.
• Your efforts will contribute to the development of an open-source platform for identifying safety and security issues in AI systems
• The exact topic and scope of your doctoral thesis will be decided with you according to your interests and preferences. 

What we offer

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team of over 60 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. 
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• 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.

Who are you?

To succeed and enjoy the position, we require from you:

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related discipline. A Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher's work.
• Fluency in written and spoken English
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Previous experience of AI, e.g., from previous studies
• Willingness and capability to work on interdisciplinary research problem(s)
• To fill the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate

• Practical expertise in AI and/or interdisciplinary research collaboration
• Demonstrated knowledge (e.g., previous studies) of ethics and philosophy

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years as of 1.3.2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

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 (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approximately 2600-3200 € per month (before taxes).  A 6-month trial period is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 15.1.2026 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

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

• Cover letter
• CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
• 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. 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 professor Kimmo Halunen, ITEE/BISG, kimmo.halunen@oulu.fi, +358406751836 or Docent Lauri Tuovinen, ITEE/BISG, lauri.tuovinen@oulu.fi, +358294482813