Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student): Co-Creating Sustainable and Competitive Pathways in Industrial Carbon Management for Finnish Society (CO²CREATION) University of Eastern Finland in Finland

The University of Eastern Finland invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) position at the Karelian Institute, Joensuu Campus, as part of the Co-Creating Sustainable and Competitive Pathways in Industrial Carbon Management for Finnish Society (CO²CREATION) project. This interdisciplinary research consortium, funded by the Strategic Research Council of Finland, brings together partners including the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, BIOS Research Unit, University of Oulu, and UEF. The project aims to support Finland’s transition to advanced industrial carbon management by developing solutions for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) that are technically feasible, economically competitive, and socially just.

CO²CREATION adopts a systemic approach to industrial transformation, integrating climate, energy, and regional policy goals. The research utilizes foresight methods, spatial wellbeing analysis, and digital twin simulations to assess the impacts of policy choices across Finnish regions. As a Doctoral Researcher, you will focus on quantitative data analysis to evaluate the regional and local economic impacts of green investments, especially CCUS. Your work will involve collecting and analyzing regional data from secondary sources, conducting case studies with industry experts and local government officials, and collaborating within a broad multidisciplinary consortium.

The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a large, active, and interdisciplinary research project. Candidates with backgrounds in economic geography, regional science, economics, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Key tasks include quantitative regional data collection, case study collaboration, and analysis of economic impacts of green investments in Finland. The role is full-time, starting 1 July 2026, for a fixed term of three years, with a trial period for new staff. The salary is based on Finnish university teaching and research staff levels (EUR 2,281.48-2,844.66/month), plus a personal salary element (6–50% of job-related salary), determined by research stage and performance.

Eligibility requires a suitable higher university degree or equivalent foreign qualification for doctoral studies, and excellent English language skills. The position is open to those planning to pursue or currently pursuing their first doctoral degree. After selection, candidates must apply for the right to pursue postgraduate studies in the Doctoral Programme of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies at UEF. Application documents include CV, list of publications, motivation letter, degree certificate and transcript, and certificates of language proficiency if not indicated in degree documents. All documents must be in English or Finnish (with official translations if needed).

UEF offers an international, creative, and engaging university community, flexible multi-location work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and staff benefits such as comprehensive occupational health care, training opportunities, affordable campus lunches, and sports services. The Karelian Institute conducts interdisciplinary research in humanities and social sciences, with thematic areas in regional development, ethnicity and culture, and border studies. The Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies operates on Joensuu and Kuopio campuses, training experts in history, geography, economics, business administration, law, social sciences, and health management.

Finland is renowned for its cleanliness, welfare expertise, modern technology, and excellent education system, offering a safe and attractive environment for work and study. Learn more about the university and life in Finland at UEF’s website.

For further information, contact Professor Teemu Makkonen ([email protected]), Head of Department Petri Kahila ([email protected]), or HR Specialist Airi Leppänen ([email protected]). Apply online by 31 March 2026 via the application portal.