Doctoral Researcher Positions in the Doctoral Programme in Law (DPLAW) University of Turku in Finland

The Faculty of Law at the University of Turku is inviting applications for fixed-term doctoral researcher positions in the Doctoral Programme in Law (DPLAW). The position is intended for full-time doctoral research and doctoral studies, with a start date on 1 January 2027 or by agreement during 2027. The role is based in Turku, Finland, and the researcher is expected to work in Finland.

This opportunity is designed for applicants pursuing a doctoral degree in law and related legal research fields. The programme covers a broad range of legal areas, including public law, civil law, commercial law, administrative law, international law, criminal law, European law, constitutional law, contract law, corporate law, digital law, environmental law, financial law, gender and law, jurisprudence, labour law, legal history, media law, Nordic law, procedural law, property law, and tax law.

The employment is based on a total annual working time of 1,612 hours, allowing flexibility in how working hours are arranged. Teaching and other duties may normally account for up to 5% of annual working time, so the primary focus remains on completing the dissertation within the planned timetable. The duration of a UTUGS-funded fixed-term doctoral researcher position is up to four years, and not beyond 31 December 2030. Prior funding for doctoral studies and the planned stage of the doctoral degree may affect the duration of the contract.

Applicants must hold an active study right for the doctoral degree at the University of Turku in the Faculty of Law, Doctoral Programme in Law, or apply for that right through the Studyinfo service in this call. Candidates are expected to be pursuing or planning their first doctoral degree and must not have previously received four years of full-time funding for doctoral studies. A completed higher university degree, typically a Master’s degree, is required, along with evidence of academic suitability for postgraduate study and doctoral completion.

Applications must be submitted electronically by 8 September 2026 at 23:59 Finnish time. Required attachments include a CV and list of publications, a research plan prepared according to Faculty of Law guidelines and good scientific practice, and degree certificate and transcript of records. Application documents may be written in Finnish, Swedish, or English; official translations are required if documents are in another language. The university may use Turnitin OriginalityCheck, and any use of AI in preparing the research plan must be clearly disclosed.

The selection process is competitive and includes evaluation of the originality, ambition, rigour, significance, and feasibility of the research plan, as well as academic performance, research progress, and scientific merits. Selection is typically carried out in two stages and may include an interview. The University of Turku emphasizes equality, diversity, and inclusion, and offers a supportive research environment, flexible working arrangements, training opportunities, and access to staff well-being services.

For questions about the position, contact Associate Professor Daniela Alaattinoğlu at [email protected]. For recruitment questions, contact Coordinator Kirsi Tuohela at [email protected]. General programme contact: [email protected].