Doctoral Researcher in the MSCA Cofund DP-FOBI Doctoral Programme, Marketing 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 Marketing. The research theme centers on behavioural biases in the adoption of bio-based innovations in the forest sector, examining how cognitive heuristics and biases such as status quo bias, loss aversion, ambiguity aversion, and familiarity bias affect consumer decision-making and the uptake of novel bio-based solutions. The project aims to generate actionable insights for firms and policymakers to design effective communication strategies and interventions that promote the diffusion of bio-based innovations.

The position is based at the Joensuu campus and offers supportive supervision by experienced researchers, access to comprehensive doctoral training, DP-FOBI activities (workshops, summer schools, research visits, secondments), and opportunities for collaboration within the vibrant FOBI research community and the Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Research Group. Close cooperation with industry and societal partners is encouraged, enhancing the real-world impact of the research. UEF provides extensive staff benefits, including occupational health care, staff training, campus restaurant discounts, access to the national healthcare system, and affordable childcare and school services.

Employment 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 business administration, marketing, cognitive sciences, innovation studies, 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), and candidates must meet the language skills requirements of the Doctoral Programme of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies at UEF. Interest in behavioural economics, consumer behaviour, sustainability transition, and innovation studies is expected, along with commitment to high-quality research, interdisciplinary mindset, teamwork skills, motivation to engage with industry and stakeholders, and willingness for international research mobility. Proof of English proficiency is required if not evident from academic credentials.

The main tasks include conducting dissertation research, completing required doctoral studies, participating in DP-FOBI training, preparing an individual study and career development plan, and engaging in secondments, research visits, collaborative projects, and dissemination activities. The selection process involves eligibility and ethics check, external review, interviews, final selection, and appointment, with evaluation by external, independent experts.

Applications 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, transcript of records, 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 the specified format or language requirements will not be considered. Official English translations of degree certificates are required if originals are not in English.

For further information, contact Project Manager Paula Inkeroinen ([email protected]) or [email protected]. Learn more about the university, the DP-FOBI programme, and living in Finland at the UEF and DP-FOBI websites.