Doctoral Researcher in the MSCA Cofund DP-FOBI Doctoral Programme, Forest Sciences University of Eastern Finland in Finland

The University of Eastern Finland is seeking a Doctoral Researcher for a four-year position within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions COFUND Doctoral Programme for Advancing Forest-Based Bioeconomy (DP-FOBI). Based at the Joensuu campus, this research opportunity focuses on multi-temporal laser scanning for characterizing tree structure, growth, and wood quality. The research aims to develop advanced methodologies for forest mensuration, leveraging time-series laser scanning data from various platforms to address key questions in tree structure analysis, growth quantification, and wood quality assessment. The project will contribute novel methods and insights for both scientific and practical forestry applications.

DP-FOBI offers a supportive, interdisciplinary research environment, comprehensive doctoral training, workshops, summer schools, research visits, and secondments. The selected candidate will join the vibrant FOBI research community and the Vastaranta Research Syndicate, with opportunities for collaboration across academia, industry, and societal partners. University staff benefits include occupational health care, staff training, campus restaurant discounts, access to the national healthcare system, and affordable childcare and school services.

The position is full-time for four years, with a total working time of 1,612 hours per year and a four-month probationary period. The salary follows the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions system, including a living allowance (EUR 3,200/month), mobility allowance (EUR 87/month), family allowance (EUR 300/month for eligible researchers), paid leave, holiday bonus, travel allowance (EUR 1,500/year), additional travel allowance (EUR 10,500 total), research costs (EUR 6,000 total), and special needs allowance/support if required.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in forestry, geography, geoinformatics, applied statistics, or a closely related field, and must not have a doctoral degree at the time of application. The MSCA mobility rule applies (less than 12 months in Finland during the past 3 years). Language skills requirements for the Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology at UEF must be met. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in remote sensing data analysis, ability to manage large datasets, independent fieldwork skills (including a valid driver’s license and willingness to travel/work abroad), familiarity with programming environments (Python, R, MATLAB), and a proactive, independent research approach.

The main tasks include dissertation research, completion of doctoral studies, participation in DP-FOBI training, preparation of an individual study and career development plan, and engagement in secondments, research visits, collaborative projects, and dissemination activities. Admission to the doctoral programme requires a research plan, to be prepared with supervisors after acceptance.

Application materials must be submitted in English via the UEF electronic recruitment system by 10 August 2026. Required documents include a certified copy of the Master’s degree diploma and transcript, CV, electronic copy and summary of Master’s thesis, Ethics Self-Assessment form, motivational letter, and proof of English proficiency if not evident from academic credentials. Application templates are available at https://sites.uef.fi/dp-fobi/how-to-apply/. Applications not adhering to format or language requirements will not be considered. Official English translations of degree certificates are required if originals are not in English.

The selection process includes eligibility and ethics check, external review, interviews, final selection, and appointment. Applications are evaluated by external, independent experts based on academic merit and potential. For further information, contact Project Manager Paula Inkeroinen ([email protected]) or [email protected]. Learn more about the university at https://www.uef.fi/en.

Enjoy life in Finland, known for its cleanliness, welfare, modern technology, and superb education system. The University of Eastern Finland is a multidisciplinary institution with internationally recognized research and education in natural sciences, forestry, and technology, offering a modern, international, and inclusive academic community.