Senior Researcher, Vocational Education and Training
The Finnish Institute for Educational Research is seeking to recruit a Senior Researcher in vocational education and training starting 3rd of August 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is in effect until further notice.
The position is related to the research area of Education, working life and lifelong guidance at the Finnish Institute for Educational Research. This research area examines the connections between education, working life, lifelong learning, and lifelong guidance, and their significance for the development of individuals and society. The position of a Senior Researcher strengthens the national task of vocational education and training (VET) research carried out by the Finnish Institute for Educational Research.
Who we are looking for
The position requires an applicable doctoral degree, evidence of independent research conducted in the field of vocational education and training as demonstrated by publications, active participation in research projects and applying for funding, and the ability to supervise theses. In addition, the ability to communicate research results and participate in national and international research collaborations is required.
Multidisciplinary research expertise and experience in international and comparative research are considered an advantage. We also value knowledge of education policy, participation in societal activities and debates, and the ability to identify and justify the development needs of VET research and development. Practical understanding of Finnish VET and its development, as well as the links between education and working life, are also considered an advantage. We understand vocational education broadly to include basic, further, continuing, and higher education for young people and adults.
The duties and qualification requirements of Senior Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The position requires English language skills necessary in an international research environment. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
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 Handbook for international staff.
The salary for a Senior Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 6-7 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately 4200-5500 €/month (gross income) depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.
How to apply?
Please make sure that your ORCID-profile (https://orcid.org) works: your publications are listed and public (Set visibility: Everyone). You cannot apply to this job without an ORCID profile.
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
- A Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity.
- A short and free-form motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including applicant’s research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
- A numbered list of all scientific publications and other publications showing the applicant's ability and merits for the position using the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland.
- A maximum of five publications, which must be numbered according to the list of publications (as one PDF file) or a PDF file with public links to the 5 chosen publications.
- Research plan: a short written description (max 4 pages) of the applicant's research merits, leadership in research, and experience in obtaining research funding, as well as a plan describing the applicant’s vision of how the applicant's current and future work will support the research and international collaboration at the Finnish Institute for Educational Research.
- A teaching portfolio prepared according to the guidelines, i.e., a written description of pedagogical training and teaching merits (Instructions on the JYU Work with us website).
For further information, please contact Research Professor Jaana Kettunen, jaana.h.kettunen@jyu.fi or Senior Researcher Maarit Virolainen. maarit.ha.virolainen@jyu.fi.
Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 28 February 2026. Applications sent via email are not considered.
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 institution as well as reviews by external experts. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
The Finnish Institute for Educational Research
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centred environment of 2,800 experts and 14,900 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.
The Finnish Institute for Educational Research (FIER) was established in 1968. FIER operates as an independent institute of the University of Jyväskylä and carries out significant, multidisciplinary educational research in Finland and internationally. FIER has a holistic focus on Finland’s education system and also learning outside the formal education system. FIER cooperates with educational institutions, representatives of educational administration and working life, decision-makers and the media to develop education and enhance the societal impact of research. FIER facilitates advanced researcher training in cooperation with the University faculties.
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.
