1–2 postdoctoral researchers or project researchers in the field of data analytics and machine learning, focusing on hybrid threats to critical infrastructure

The Department of Computing at the University of Turku, Finland is looking for 1-2 postdoctoral researchers or project researchers to develop data analytics, and particularly machine learning methods, for detecting and countering hybrid threats to critical infrastructure. The fixed term position starts as soon as possible by mutual agreement and ends on 30.9.2027. The position is full-time, although part-time work is possible by mutual agreement.

Job description

We are looking for a data analytics expert to join our research group, with a strong interest in the analysis, detection, and mitigation of hybrid threats to critical infrastructure. The selected candidate will work in the HUSKI (Hybrid Threats Secured Critical Infrastructure) research project, funded by Business Finland. The project partners include the University of Turku, the University of Jyväskylä, Turku University of Applied Sciences, and Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences.

The goal of the HUSKI project is to develop a comprehensive, real-time situational awareness service that helps critical infrastructure (CI) operators detect and counter hybrid threats. This includes building digital infrastructure and data architecture, developing algorithms for situational awareness, and applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyze large-scale data for the early detection and mitigation of hybrid threats - thereby enhancing the resilience of CI operators.

The Department of Computing at the University of Turku is responsible for the data analytics work in the project. Our role is to develop AI and especially machine learning based algorithms to analyze large data volumes, identify anomalies, and generate real-time situational awareness for detecting and anticipating hybrid threats in order to protect critical infrastructure.

We offer you a unique opportunity to be at the heart of societally relevant and timely research. With us, you will:

  • Contribute to concrete solutions for safeguarding critical infrastructures.
  • Work in a high-level, multidisciplinary research environment.
  • Develop AI-driven algorithms that provide real-time situational awareness and help counter actions threatening societal stability.
  • Advance your research career in a highly important field of security while building extensive collaboration networks.
  • Deepen your expertise in the latest machine learning methods applied to detecting and anticipating hybrid threats in large and diverse datasets.
  • Be part of an encouraging and interactive research community that values new ideas and collaborative work.
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Who we are looking for

What we expect from applicants:

  • A relevant doctoral degree or a Master’s degree in a field with a strong focus on algorithms, data analytics, or computational methods, such as computer science, information technology, mathematics, statistics, or physics.
  • Knowledge and experience in AI-based data analytics methods. The applicant must be able to implement data analytics processes and algorithms using scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, Matlab).
  • Ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary research group.
  • Capacity for independent work, good collaboration and communication skills, and strong analytical abilities.
  • Sufficient proficiency in English.

The following skills and qualifications will be considered as assets:

  • Prior experience in data anomaly and abnormality detection.
  • Familiarity with cybersecurity, hybrid threats, or critical infrastructure protection.
  • Practical experience with data architectures and technologies for processing large-scale datasets.

Qualification requirements

The qualification requirements for the positions are stated in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure: rules-of-procedure.pdf. 

A person selected for the post of postdoctoral researcher is required to have a doctoral degree and the ability to conduct independent scientific work as well as having the necessary teaching skills.  

A person selected for the post of project researcher is required to have a higher university degree. When assessing the merits of the applicants, special emphasis will be placed on competence and practical expertise in the field in question.

We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Benefits

We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.

Please read more about University of Turku as an employee from our Come work with us! pages.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers. 

The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:

The University of Turku is among the top of the world’s universities in most rankings and among the best universities in the world in certain fields. Our high-quality basic research, a multidisciplinary research profile and close cooperation in research infrastructures creates the basis for international top research. Read more about University of Turku in international university rankings.

The University of Turku has several high-quality research infrastructures required for cutting-edge research. Learn more about the roadmap of research infrastructures and how the research infrastructure and expert teams offer tailored solutions for businesses and organizations.

Salary and trial period

The salaries are determined in accordance with the university salary system for teaching and research personnel and will depend on the degree and qualifications of the applicant.   

For a postdoctoral researcher (OV5-OV6), the salary will be in the beginning of the employment on average 3600–4500 euros/month, depending on previous experience and skills.

For a project researcher (OV02-OV04), the salary will be in the beginning of the employment on average 2500–2900 euros/month, depending on previous experience and skills.

The amount of the salary is defined when the employment contract is prepared.   

A six (6) month trial period applies to the positions.

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 30.9.2025 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki).

Applicants should enclose with their application:

  • a CV with contact information for two referees
  • list of publications (if applicable)
  • degree certificates with translation in English or in Finnish
  • study transcript (project researcher position)
  • motivation letter
  • any other documents that may influence the filling of the position.

Further information

For further information about the position, please contact: Prof. Jukka Heikkonen (jukhei@utu.fi).

With questions about the application process, please contact: HR Specialist Nina Reini (nina.reini@utu.fi).

Department of Computing

The Department of Computing educates professionals for the modern digitalised society. Central themes of teaching and research include Digitalisation, Machine Learning, Autonomous and Intelligent Systems, Cybersecurity and Health Technology. 

The Faculty of Technology is the newest faculty of the University of Turku, it was established in the beginning of 2021. The Faculty consists of the Department of Computing, Department of Biotechnology and the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering. We have more than 2,000 graduate and postgraduate students and circa 400 employees, 50 of whom are professors. Our faculty is an international, multicultural and diverse work community.

The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.

See our open vacancies

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1–2 postdoctoral researchers or project researchers in the field of data analytics and machine learning, focusing on hybrid threats to critical infrastructure

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