Doctoral Researcher in Suffering and Meliorism in Literature and the Philosophy of Literature (Centre of Excellence on the Meliorist Philosophy of Suffering) Tampere University in Finland

Tampere University invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in the field of Suffering and Meliorism in Literature and the Philosophy of Literature, as part of the Centre of Excellence on the Meliorist Philosophy of Suffering (MePhiS, 2026–2033). This research group, led by Professor Sari Kivistö and funded by the Research Council of Finland, is hosted by the Faculty of Social Sciences at Tampere University. The position is fixed-term for 2 years, starting in January or February 2026, and offers a unique opportunity to engage in high-impact, interdisciplinary research at the intersection of philosophy, literature, and the humanities.

The MePhiS Centre of Excellence focuses on the meliorist philosophy of suffering, which places the concept of suffering at the heart of philosophical inquiry and seeks to understand how the world can be improved through active human effort. The research group specifically explores how literature and the philosophy of literature can articulate, reflect, and influence experiences and ethical considerations of suffering. Topics include optimism, pessimism, meliorism, and the role of literature in expressing and managing societal and individual suffering, such as that caused by war, violence, poverty, marginalisation, and the climate crisis.

The successful candidate will conduct doctoral research aligned with the group’s aims, participate in regular project meetings, and contribute to the joint research plan of the Centre of Excellence. Up to 5% of working time may be devoted to teaching and administrative duties. The working language is English, and the position offers a supportive, international, and collaborative environment with excellent opportunities for professional development.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (such as literary studies or philosophy) and demonstrate expertise in literary studies and/or philosophy of literature. Familiarity with the themes of suffering, optimism, pessimism, or meliorism, and experience in combining literary and philosophical approaches, are considered advantages. Candidates should possess strong analytical and methodological skills, the ability to conduct independent research at a high international level, and excellent English proficiency. The selected candidate must also apply for and be accepted into Tampere University’s Doctoral Program in Social Sciences in spring 2026.

The position is salaried, with a typical starting salary of approximately 2,700 EUR per month, determined by the University Salary System and adjusted for qualifications and experience. Additional staff benefits include occupational health care, flexible working hours, and access to sports facilities. International staff are supported in relocating to Finland.

Applications must be submitted in English via Tampere University’s electronic recruitment system by 28 November 2025. Required documents include a CV (max 3 pages), a short letter of reference from the (prospective) PhD supervisor, and a preliminary research proposal (max 3 pages). Online interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held in December. For further information, contact Professor Sari Kivistö at [email protected].