4-5 research assistants (summer 2026) for Software Engineering research groups
The Software Engineering Unit of the Department of Computing is looking for motivated research assistants for the summer of 2026. For more information about the teaching, research and project activities of the unit, please visit https://tt.utu.fi/sweng/.
As a research assistant, you will be involved in ongoing research projects and have the opportunity to learn about methods and research in the field. The content of the work will be agreed with the candidate according to their skills and personal interests.
Job description
Summer jobs are available in the following areas:
- Developer of teaching tools: The research team has previously developed a variety of tools for teaching purposes. Recently, most of these have been related in some way to the exploitation of large-scale language models (LLMs). The position will involve developing a variety of new tools for teaching, such as plagiarism detection using language models, tools to support the production of teaching materials, or the design and documentation of the use of virtual machines/containers. A good knowledge of Python or Java and programming tools (e.g. version control, Maven) is required. An understanding of basic web development principles would be an advantage. More information: Erkki Kaila (ertaka@utu.fi).
- Research Assistant for the LifeFactFuture Project: The LifeFactFuture project (see https://sites.utu.fi/lifefactfuture/) is developing a future factory concept for the life sciences sector in an interdisciplinary research group. The role of the Department of Computing is to examine RegOps practices and future artificial intelligence solutions in the field. The research assistant is required to have knowledge of software engineering development processes, an understanding of the application of artificial intelligence methods, and/or practical programming skills. The specific duties will be determined based on the applicant's skills. For more information about the position, please contact Tuomas Mäkilä (tuomas.makila@utu.fi).
- 2-3 Research Assistants for the VST (Virtual Sea Trial) project: This project combines researchers from several universities and companies to develop a unified and distributed virtual testing environment for ship systems (https://ar.utu.fi/vst). The department’s role is to develop new UX solutions utilizing e.g. XR technologies. The position requires good practical programming skills, the ability to learn new programming languages and platforms and good written and oral English skills. Some positions require excellent written and oral Finnish skills. Experience on XR technologies (virtual reality, augmented reality, metaverse) and Unity 3D platform are also appreciated. You may also write a final paper on the topic of your research project. More information: Teijo Lehtonen: (tetale@utu.fi).
The summer work can serve as the basis for a thesis, and provides an excellent basis for possible future research assistantships after the summer.
The work requires good proficiency in Finnish and/or English, depending on the position, as well as programming and documentation skills. Depending on the specific task, prior experience with technical systems may be considered an advantage.
Employment details
Duration: 3 months (one or more periods).
Time window: 1.4.2026–30.9.2026 (negotiable flexibly).
Salary: 2 280 euros/month.
Trial period is one month.
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 employer from our Come work with us! pages.
How to apply
Applications should be submitted at the latest on Monday, February 23, 2026 (16:00) using the electronic application form of the University of Turku.
Please attach your Curriculum Vitae, study transcript and a brief motivation letter. Kindly indicate in your motivation letter which research themes / teams you are primarily interested in.
Research assistant positions in the summer of 2026 are intended primarily for students of the University of Turku. All students at the University of Turku can apply for the summer work positions. Students of the Department of Computing are preferred. The positions are primarily intended for those who have no earlier work experience at the department.
