Doctoral Researcher, Doctoral Programme on Educational Policy, Lifelong Learning and Comparative Education Research (KEVEKO) University of Turku in Finland

Doctoral Researcher position in the Doctoral Programme on Educational Policy, Lifelong Learning and Comparative Education Research (KEVEKO) at the University of Turku, Finland.

This is a full-time doctoral researcher opening intended for doctoral research and doctoral studies in a multidisciplinary, internationally oriented education research environment. The position begins on 1 January 2027, or by agreement during 2027, and may also be suitable for applicants seeking continuation of a current doctoral researcher contract. The fixed-term employment can last up to four years, but not beyond 31 December 2030.

The programme focuses on comparative education, educational policy, higher education, and international education. The University of Turku states that the doctoral researcher will work in Turku, Finland, with flexible remote-work possibilities. Teaching and other duties are allowed only on a limited basis so that the dissertation can be completed on schedule.

Eligibility is tied to doctoral study rights: applicants must already have an active right to pursue a doctoral degree in the Faculty of Education, KEVEKO Doctoral Programme, or must apply for that right through Studyinfo in the same call. The post is for applicants pursuing their first doctoral degree, and candidates who have already received four years of full-time funding for doctoral studies are not eligible. A person who already holds a doctoral degree cannot be selected.

Selection is based on an overall assessment of the research plan, motivation, qualifications, and the research environment, including supervisor commitment and the fit of the topic with KEVEKO’s profile. The university highlights that early-stage applicants are not expected to have completed doctoral studies or publications, although prior progress and achievements may be considered where relevant.

Funding is provided as UTUGS-funded fixed-term employment. The salary is based on the University of Turku’s teaching and research staff salary system and is stated to be roughly €2,400 to €3,300 per month, depending on doctoral progress, experience, and skills.

Applicants must submit the electronic application form and required attachments by 8 September 2026 at 23:59 local time in Finland. Required documents include a CV with publications, an up-to-date research plan, a motivation letter, an implementation and timetable plan for the dissertation, and degree certificates with transcripts and any necessary translations. If needed, applicants should also apply for doctoral study rights via Studyinfo.

For questions, contact Sanna Niukko (Doctoral Programme Coordinator), Professor Päivi Siivonen (Director of KEVEKO), or the Faculty contact address. The application is submitted through the TalentAdore portal linked in the posting.