Doctoral Researcher in the MSCA Cofund DP-FOBI Doctoral Programme, Law 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), focusing on Law. The position is based at the Joensuu campus and is expected to begin no later than 1 April 2027. The research theme centers on sustainable innovation and intellectual property rights (IPR) law, examining how legal and regulatory frameworks influence innovation from conception to commercialization, particularly in bio-based industries.

This PhD project will analyze the role of existing laws, such as IPR, data, and market regulations, in supporting or constraining innovation. It will address emerging challenges in securing IPR protection and compliance with legal standards, aiming to identify legal barriers and opportunities and provide recommendations for improving the regulatory landscape to foster responsible, competitive, and sustainable innovation. Research topics may include the EU AI Act and sustainable models for data-based innovation, EU food labelling law and marketing healthy consumable innovations, and EU patent law, business method patents, and trade secrets protection for new service platform providers in sectors like eco and health tourism.

The DP-FOBI programme offers supportive supervision by experienced researchers, a unique interdisciplinary research environment, access to comprehensive doctoral training, workshops, summer schools, research visits, and secondments. The researcher will join the FOBI research community and Commercial and Trade Law Research Group, collaborating within a vibrant network and with industry and societal partners to enhance the real-world impact of their research. UEF provides extensive occupational health care, staff training, campus restaurant discounts, access to the national healthcare system, and high-quality 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), paid leave, and a holiday bonus. Additional benefits include a travel allowance (EUR 1,500/year), an extra travel allowance (EUR 10,500 total) for secondments and short visits, research costs (EUR 6,000 total), and special needs support if required.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in law or a closely related field, must not hold a doctoral degree at the time of the call deadline, and must meet the MSCA mobility rule (less than 12 months in Finland during the past 3 years). Language skills requirements of the Doctoral Programme of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies at UEF must be fulfilled. A strong legal background in intellectual property regulation, particularly in patent law, trademark law, or EU intellectual property law, is expected. Familiarity with the legal protection of intangible assets, knowledge of EU data law, contract law, or commercial law is required. Proof of English proficiency is needed if not evident from academic credentials.

To apply, submit all materials in English via the UEF electronic recruitment system by 10 August 2026. Required appendices 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. Application templates are available at the DP-FOBI website. Applications not adhering to format or language requirements will not be considered. The selection process includes eligibility and ethics check, external review, interviews, final selection, and appointment. For further information, contact Project Manager Paula Inkeroinen ([email protected]) or [email protected].

The University of Eastern Finland is a multidisciplinary institution with campuses in Joensuu and Kuopio, employing approximately 3,200 staff and hosting around 17,000 degree students. The Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies trains experts in history, geography, economics, business administration, law, social sciences, and health management, with research closely linked to the university’s strategic areas.

Enjoy life in Finland, known for its cleanliness, welfare know-how, modern technology, and superb education system. Learn more about the university and living in Finland at the UEF website.