Doctoral Researcher, AI-Driven Entrepreneurship
Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics (JSBE) is currently seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher for a fixed term of 18 months, starting on the 1st of April 2026 or as agreed. The fixed-term position is for completing doctoral studies.
We are seeking a talented researcher to investigate how AI-driven ventures build and sustain trust while creating and scaling their operations. The doctoral researcher will join an international research project that bridges entrepreneurship and responsible AI, generating critical insights into how entrepreneurs can develop trustworthy AI solutions.
The position focuses particularly on trust-building processes in AI-driven entrepreneurship and resource orchestration in sustainable AI ventures. The doctoral researcher will work closely with Dr. Muhammad Sufyan and the international research team, building on ongoing research on AI trustworthiness in entrepreneurial contexts. The researcher is expected to conduct rigorous mixed-methods research combining qualitative interview studies with Finnish and international AI ventures and quantitative survey research, publish findings in leading management and entrepreneurship journals, and complete doctoral studies required for the PhD degree.
Who we are looking for
We expect from you:
- a master's degree in business administration, management, entrepreneurship, or other relevant field
- demonstrated research interest in AI trustworthiness, human-AI interaction, or entrepreneurship (evidenced through coursework, projects, or publications)
- experience with or strong interest in mixed-methods research combining qualitative and quantitative approaches
- proficiency in qualitative research methods (e.g., systematic literature reviews, interview analysis, qualitative coding)
- competence in quantitative research techniques and statistical analysis
- excellent communication skills and ability to produce high-quality academic writing in English
- motivation for doctoral studies and persistence to complete dissertation research in an international and multidisciplinary research environment
- ability for independent and self-directed research combined with strong collaborative skills
- readiness to work as part of an international research team pursuing shared research objectives
The following qualifications are considered significant advantages:
- prior research or publications related to AI, technology adoption, trust, or entrepreneurship
- experience with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., ATLAS.ti)
- experience with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R, Python)
- teaching experience in entrepreneurship or related fields
- knowledge of AI and machine learning concepts
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. A trial period of maximum six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
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. If the applicant does not have permission for post-graduate studies, it must be applied with a separate application procedure from the JSBE after selection for the position.
Benefits
At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2500 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.
How to apply?
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
- 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.
- A short informal motivation or cover letter (max 1 page).
- A short research plan and/or doctoral study plan (max 3 pages).
- Degree certificate (highest degree).
Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by March 31st, 2026. Applications sent via email are not considered.
For further information, please contact Professor Mikko Rönkkö, mikko.ronkko@jyu.fi.
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.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics
At the University of Jyväskylä, everyone can find their place in the human-centred environment of 2,600 experts and 14,700 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for us all. It is essential that each member of the community thrives and has opportunities to develop and grow. We cherish openness of thinking as well as the balance between research and education. Our naturally beautiful campus is located at the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics (JSBE) conducts high-quality research and offers quality degree education and executive education in business and economics. JSBE mission supports Competitive, Digital, and Sustainable Transformation in Business and Economy. We offer our expertise widely to business, economy and society and contribute our knowledge to promote university-based entrepreneurship and innovation activities.
JSBE is accredited by AACSB and BGA. JSBE’s Avance Executive Education has AMBA accreditation. JSBE’s research is ranked among top 401-500 in Shanghai’s Academic Ranking of World Universities and 250-300 in Times Higher Education ranking.
JSBE is an active, international, and cooperative faculty in the dynamic and international University of Jyväskylä. The number of JSBE faculty is around 120, including about 25 professors. 1.500 students study at JSBE. Each year, around 200 students graduate as Masters of Science, and about 10 doctoral dissertations are publicly defended at JSBE.
Information for the applicant
The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, after submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.
You have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout.
