Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics (JSBE) is seeking to recruit a 5-8 Doctoral Researchers in Business and Economics starting 4 January 2027, or as soon as possible after that for a maximum of three years. The fixed-term position is for completing doctoral studies.

JSBE doctoral school consists of two doctoral programmes: JSBE doctoral programme in business studies, and JSBE doctoral programme in economics. At the Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics (JSBE) it is possible to complete a doctoral degree in seven major disciplines: accounting and corporate finance, corporate communication, corporate environmental management, management and leadership, marketing, strategy and entrepreneurship, and economics.

Who should apply

The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required. The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master's degree. In addition, the Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application procedure from the JSBE.

Selection criteria

Applications will be assessed against the following main criteria, taking into account the applicant’s stage of doctoral studies:

1. Competence and potential of the applicant:
   • Academic and research competence relevant to the proposed doctoral research.
   • Quality and relevance of previous studies, research experience, and other academic achievements.
   • Demonstrated potential to conduct high-quality independent research and complete the doctoral degree.
   • Demonstrated progress in doctoral research, where applicable.
2. Quality and feasibility of the research plan
   • The research problem and expected scientific contribution.
   • Theoretical and methodological choices.
   • Feasibility of the research plan, including a realistic timetable supporting completion of the degree within the target timeframe.
   • Connection to research conducted at JSBE.
3. Funding plan
   • Credibility and feasibility of the funding plan for completing the doctoral degree, including the role of the external funding sought.

Selection will be based on the application materials and the Faculty Research Committee’s assessment of each application. The Committee will also consult the Heads of Disciplines as part of the selection process. No interviews will be conducted. The Dean will make the final selection decision. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

What we offer

Come to Jyväskylä, Finland, and join our vibrant and inspiring community!

At the University of Jyväskylä, you will be a valued member of our community with a unique opportunity to contribute to international research. You will become part of our international and multidisciplinary community that prioritizes the wellbeing of each individual. Our lively campus provides excellent opportunities for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland, named the world’s happiest country for consecutive years since 2018, offers a high standard of living with free education (also in English), affordable childcare, generous family benefits, and comprehensive healthcare. Work–life balance is highly valued in Finland, and employees enjoy four to six weeks of annual holiday. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland, just three hours by train from the capital Helsinki. Part of the Finnish Lakeland, the city offers easy access to nature and a range of outdoor, sports and exercise activities. As a major centre of education with a large student population, it also features a vibrant cultural scene. For more information about the University of Jyväskylä, the city of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.

Salaries are based on job demands and employees’ performance following the Finnish University Salary System. The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately EUR 2500 per month (gross income). A holiday bonus is paid to all employees. With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers. If you are relocating from abroad, we will support your move to Jyväskylä and Finland.

We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARA principles.

How to apply?

The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:

1. A curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and, as far as possible, considering the template for researcher’s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
2. A short informal motivation or cover letter (max 1 page).
3. A research plan including doctoral study plan (max 5 pages).
4. Degree certificate (highest degree).
5. Letter of recommendation from your supervisor-in-charge. You can attach it to the online application or please ask your supervisor to send it directly to mika.t.t.skippari@jyu.fi before the application deadline.

We look forward to receiving your application in our recruitment system by 31 October 2026.

For further information, please contact Senior Researcher Mika Skippari: mika.t.t.skippari@jyu.fi, tel. +358406674544.

Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants to apply for this position.