Postdoctoral Researcher in the FRONT Research Programme University of Oulu in Finland

The University of Oulu is offering a fixed-term Postdoctoral Researcher position in the FRONT research programme (Frontiers of Arctic and Global Resilience), based in the Faculty of Education and Psychology and linked to the SERSus (Socio-Ecological Resilience and Sustainability) research group led by Prof. Maria Ojala.

The project explores critical emotional awareness (CEA) as a possible resilience factor against disinformation/propaganda and for civic engagement among young people in a time of polycrisis, including climate change and war. The research focuses on children, adolescents, and young adults, and is designed to combine qualitative and quantitative approaches in a transdisciplinary resilience context.

The postdoctoral researcher will collaborate with the project leader to conduct interviews, analyze and publish findings on young people’s emotions and views about emotions in relation to societal problems, and co-develop a survey scale measuring CEA. The project also includes testing the scale with youth groups and publishing the resulting articles. In addition to the core research, the appointee will contribute to FRONT, the faculty, and the university, take part in the development of the Resilience Academy of Oulu, engage in funding applications, and participate in teaching where appropriate.

Eligibility highlights include a doctoral degree awarded within the last ten years, strong quantitative and statistical skills, experience with survey studies and preferably scale development, and qualitative interview experience. Excellent English communication skills are required, and the selection will also value transdisciplinary orientation, multidisciplinary experience, and prior research related to emotions, climate change, or sustainability.

The appointment is for two years, starting at the latest on 1 January 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter. The gross starting salary is approximately €3,700–€4,300 per month before taxes, with an additional performance-based salary component of up to 50% of the job-specific part. The University of Oulu offers flexible working hours, occupational healthcare, staff benefits, and support for settling into Oulu.

Applications must be submitted through the university recruitment system by 30 September 2026 at 23:59 Finnish local time. Required materials include a cover letter, CV, list of publications, PhD certificate or equivalent notification if the doctorate is still pending, and contact details for two referees. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed online or onsite, and references and diplomas will be checked during selection.