Doctoral Researcher positions in Biology, Geography and Geology (BGG) University of Turku in Finland

The University of Turku is advertising doctoral researcher positions in the Doctoral Programme in Biology, Geography and Geology (BGG), a multidisciplinary and internationally active programme focused on natural science research on humans, populations, and the environment.

Research topics across the programme include ecology, evolutionary biology, physiology, genetics, environmental biology, environmental science, biodiversity, human geography, physical geography, geoinformatics, economic geography, geology, mineralogy, and quaternary geology. The positions are intended for full-time doctoral research and doctoral studies at the University of Turku in Finland, with work based in Turku and employment in one of the relevant departments.

The appointments begin on 1 January 2027 or by agreement during 2027. UTUGS-funded fixed-term doctoral researcher positions can last up to four years, though not beyond 31 December 2030. In addition, up to one-year thesis finalization positions are available for candidates in the final stages of doctoral research who aim to submit the dissertation for pre-examination during 2027.

Applicants must be eligible for doctoral studies, hold a relevant Master’s degree, satisfy the University of Turku language requirements, and have or obtain an active study right in the BGG doctoral programme by the deadline. The call is aimed at applicants pursuing their first doctoral degree and not previously funded full-time for a four-year doctoral period. A doctoral degree already completed makes the applicant ineligible for the position.

Selection is based on the quality and feasibility of the research plan, motivation, competence, scientific publications, international activities and mobility, and the fit between the planned research and the BGG research environment. For the thesis finalization positions, emphasis is placed on the realism of completing pre-examination during 2027.

Funding is provided through UTUGS, with salary based on the University of Turku’s teaching and research staff salary system. The advertised doctoral researcher salary is roughly €2,400 to €3,300 per month depending on stage, progress, and experience.

To apply, candidates must submit the electronic application in TalentAdore with a CV, publications list, research plan, motivation letter, degree certificates and transcripts, and other required documentation. If already holding a doctoral study right in another unit or programme, the motivation letter must explain the transfer to BGG. A supervisor’s assessment must also be sent separately to the faculty contact email by the deadline.