Doctoral Researcher in Information Studies – Everyday Encounters with Propaganda

The University of Oulu is seeking a Doctoral Researcher in Information Studies for the Faculty of Humanities, focusing on the project 'Everyday Encounters with Propaganda.' The university is a large, multidisciplinary institution with a global outlook and a commitment to high-standard research and education. The Information Studies unit is part of the Information and Communication Studies Unit, which addresses complex societal issues such as sustainability, health, emerging technologies, and security through research on information literacy, knowledge management, and science communication. The advertised doctoral project investigates how young people perceive and experience propaganda in their daily lives, both online and offline, using qualitative and participatory research methods. Young participants will share their experiences through interviews and diaries, and some will act as co-researchers, contributing to data collection, analysis, and reporting. The project aims to understand how youth recognize, interpret, and respond to contemporary propaganda, and to develop new research approaches to studying propaganda through everyday information practices. The outcomes will inform strategies to counter harmful manipulation, with a particular focus on strengthening media and information literacy. As a doctoral researcher, you will be responsible for developing a theoretical framework, collecting and analyzing data, writing your dissertation, and completing doctoral studies. Additional duties include applying for research funding, engaging in outreach, and participating in unit activities, with teaching responsibilities limited to 5% of working time. The position is supervised by Professor Noora Hirvonen and is part of the INSPIRES research community, offering career development opportunities and staff benefits such as the ePassi wellness program. The position is full-time, fixed-term for three years starting January 2026, with a starting gross salary of €2600–3200 per month and a six-month trial period. Applicants must have a relevant Master's degree completed before employment, proficiency in English, good interpersonal skills, and meet the University of Oulu Graduate School requirements. Additional assets include language skills, experience with youth, and familiarity with the project's themes. Applications are welcome from diverse backgrounds. To apply, submit an application letter, CV, degree certificates, and referee contacts by 9th November 2025 via the university's recruitment system.