About the Program
The University of Jyväskylä invites applications for three fully funded doctoral researcher positions within the Sustainable Rural Futures project, located in the Department of History and Ethnology. This PhD opportunity focuses on investigating rural development, cultural heritage, and sustainability transitions in Finnish communities, combining anthropology, history, and sociology. The position will contribute to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences’ mission to produce socially impactful research and promote interdisciplinary collaboration. Candidates will gain advanced research training, participate in fieldwork and archival studies, and join an internationally recognised academic environment. The position requires excellent proficiency in Finnish. The research duration is fixed-term from 1 April 2026, based in Jyväskylä, Finland.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded Doctoral Researcher / PhD
- Institution: University of Jyväskylä
- Department/Faculty: History and Ethnology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Location: Jyväskylä, Finland
- Start Date (Anticipated): 1 April 2026
- Duration: Fixed-term (doctoral research period)
- Funding: Full doctoral stipend as per University regulations
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in Anthropology, Cultural Studies, History, Sociology, or related disciplines
Research Focus/Area
- Sustainable rural futures and community development
- Historical, ethnological, and sociological analyses of rural regions
- Cultural heritage and social transformation
- Archival research and fieldwork in Finnish communities
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields
- 1–4 years of prior research experience
- Excellent proficiency in Finnish
- Eligibility to enrol in doctoral studies at the University of Jyväskylä
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in rural studies, sustainability, or cultural heritage
- Strong academic record and familiarity with interdisciplinary methodologies
- Experience with qualitative and quantitative research tools
Key Features of the Program
- Work within a multidisciplinary, internationally recognised faculty
- Access to archival resources, fieldwork opportunities, and research networks
- Participation in academic seminars, conferences, and collaborative projects
- Opportunities for professional development and international research collaboration
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application via the official Finnish-language portal: Apply here
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 4 pages)
- Academic transcripts (Master’s degree and prior studies)
- Documentation supporting eligibility and prior research experience
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Immediately
- Application Deadline: 15 February 2026, 21:59 (UTC)
- Interviews (if applicable): After document screening
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Jyväskylä
- Official Job Announcement: click here
- Apply Now: click here
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