University of Jyväskylä
6 days ago
Doctoral Researcher in Psychology: Environmental Agency, Mental Health and Behaviour Change University of Jyväskylä in Finland
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Psychology
Funding
Employment is offered from 18 January 2027 to 30 September 2029. The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,700 per month gross, determined under the Finnish University Salary System at task-specific demand levels 2–4. The level increases as the thesis progresses: OV02 initially, OV03 at 50% completion and OV04 at 75% completion. A holiday bonus is paid. Relocation support, occupational health services, staff training, sports benefits and flexible or remote work options are provided.
Deadline
Nov 18, 2026
Country
Finland
University
University of Jyväskylä
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About this position
University of Jyväskylä is seeking a Doctoral Researcher in Psychology to join the Strategic Research Council-funded Planetary Mind project in Jyväskylä, Finland. The appointment runs from 18 January 2027 to 30 September 2029, with applications due by 18 November 2026.
The project investigates how Environmental Agency—the capacity to make sustainable choices in everyday life—relates to mental health across age groups. Research will examine Environmental Agency as an individual and community psychosocial resource, its effects on participation and well-being, and scalable, participatory and digitally supported approaches to strengthening Environmental Agency and mental health.
The doctoral researcher will conduct research and doctoral studies, collect and analyse quantitative and qualitative data, publish scientific work, collaborate nationally and internationally, and engage with research and stakeholder networks. Teaching may account for up to 5% of annual working time. The doctoral dissertation must address themes connected to Planetary Mind.
Applicants need a relevant Master's degree, such as psychology, social sciences or health sciences, and must be prepared to apply separately for doctoral study rights in spring 2027. Quantitative research competence and basic statistical skills in SPSS, R or Mplus are expected, together with excellent English, teamwork, independence and an interest in mental health and behaviour change. Finnish, qualitative methods, research-data experience, and scientific publishing are advantageous.
The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,700 gross per month, with progression through Finnish university salary levels as the thesis advances. The university also offers relocation support, occupational health services, professional development, sports benefits, flexible hours and possible remote work.
Apply online with an English PDF CV, a maximum two-page cover letter describing doctoral eligibility, research interests and relevant experience, the highest degree certificate, and evidence of societal engagement, impact and international activities.
Funding details
Employment is offered from 18 January 2027 to 30 September 2029. The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,700 per month gross, determined under the Finnish University Salary System at task-specific demand levels 2–4. The level increases as the thesis progresses: OV02 initially, OV03 at 50% completion and OV04 at 75% completion. A holiday bonus is paid. Relocation support, occupational health services, staff training, sports benefits and flexible or remote work options are provided.
What's required
Applicants must hold a suitable Master's degree, for example in psychology, social sciences or health sciences, and be ready to apply for and obtain doctoral study rights in the doctoral programme in psychology in spring 2027. Applicants should have competence in quantitative research methods and basic statistical analysis skills using SPSS, R or Mplus; strong interaction, collaboration, independent-working and perseverance skills; excellent written and spoken English; and an interest in mental health and behaviour-change research. Finnish fluency, qualitative research experience, research-data collection or analysis experience, and evidence of scientific writing and publishing are advantages. The successful applicant must meet the eligibility requirements for the Doctor of Psychology or Doctor of Philosophy programme and commit to completing a doctoral degree related to the Planetary Mind project themes.
How to apply
Apply through the University of Jyväskylä recruitment system by 18 November 2026. Submit English-language PDF files including a CV, an informal cover letter of up to two pages, the highest degree certificate, and evidence of societal engagement, impact and international activities.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.