Marko Kohtamäki

The University of Vaasa invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position focused on product-centric operating models in industrial contexts, as part of the CoDoc Model. This unique doctoral partnership between the University and Wärtsilä aims to address real-world challenges in the energy and manufacturing sectors, combining academic research with industrial expertise. The research project is embedded within the Strategic Business Development Research Group, renowned for its work in strategy, business models, and technology management, and offers dedicated mentoring and advanced doctoral courses. The position is full-time, fixed-term for three years (with possible one-year extension), starting in September 2026 or as mutually agreed. The successful candidate will divide their work between the University campus and Wärtsilä Vaasa STH laboratory, ensuring methodological support and industry relevance. Co-supervision is provided by subject matter experts at Wärtsilä, and research outcomes are tested in real-world applications. The annual working time is 1612 hours, and all tasks are detailed in the Annual Work Plan. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in a relevant field related to multidisciplinary business research or technology. Strong analytical and academic writing skills are highly valued, along with a proven track record in relevant projects and publications. Candidates should demonstrate innovative problem-solving, intellectual curiosity, applied pragmatism, excellent communication and project management skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Eligibility to enroll in the University of Vaasa Doctoral Programme is required before employment. The CoDoc model offers co-funded doctoral research, with a salary based on the Finnish University Salary System (YPJ), demand levels 2-4 (approximately 2378-2965 euros/month), plus an additional personal salary component based on experience and skills. The program provides opportunities for continued employment as a Post-Doctoral Researcher within the University or Wärtsilä R&D. The University of Vaasa supports employee well-being with occupational health care, flexible working arrangements, and competence development opportunities, and has been awarded the HR Excellence in Research recognition. To apply, candidates must submit their application online, including a CV (using the required template), a cover letter, degree certificates and transcript, and a detailed 5-page research plan in English and PDF format. The deadline for applications is June 7, 2026. For questions on the research topic, contact Professor Marko Kohtamäki; for doctoral programme eligibility, contact Niklas Lundström; and for application system enquiries, email [email protected]. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable business and energy solutions, advance scientific knowledge, and develop professionally within a vibrant academic and industrial ecosystem.

The University of Vaasa invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral researcher position in Strategic Business Development within the School of Management. The role is embedded in a vibrant, international academic community focused on sustainable and responsible futures, combining expertise in business and technology. The university is part of the largest Nordic energy technology cluster, promoting sustainable business, energy, and society. The postdoctoral researcher will join the Strategic Business Development research group, actively participating in the planning and execution of research projects and in applying for national and international research funding. The position emphasizes building long-term collaborations with regional companies, development organizations, and university consortia, as well as identifying research, development, and innovation opportunities arising from regional economic needs. A key responsibility is teaching and supervising in the Master’s Programme in Business Development, closely linked to ongoing research and RDI activities. Students engage in regional development through course projects, company collaborations, and theses. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to demonstrate a strong interest in research-based pedagogy and the integration of research, teaching, and regional impact. The position requires regular work in Seinäjoki, Kokkola, or Vaasa, with the main workplace in one of these cities. The university values experiential and practice-oriented teaching methods, the ability to inspire and challenge experienced adult learners, and the integration of research-based thinking into practical business development. Success in the role requires interest in working at the business interface, multidisciplinary collaboration, and building research-driven learning environments with regional stakeholders. Applicants must hold a relevant doctoral degree in business administration or a related field, demonstrate independent research ability, and possess teaching skills. Experience in research and development projects, competitive funding, collaboration with companies, impactful research, and university-level teaching is valued. Fluency in Finnish is required (with possible exemption), as well as good English skills. The position offers a salary of approximately 3,630–4,080 EUR per month, with additional performance-based components and comprehensive employee benefits. The annual workload is 1,612 hours, with flexible arrangements and partial remote work possible. Applications must be submitted via the University of Vaasa’s electronic application form by 31 August 2026. Required documents include a CV, list of scientific publications, and a one-page cover letter describing motivation, ongoing research, and future interests. For further information, contact Professor Marko Kohtamäki or University Lecturer Heini Pensar.