Research Assistants (Geography)

The Department of Geography and Geology at the University of Turku is seeking Research Assistants for fixed-term positions in the Fluvial and Coastal Research Group. The employment will begin on 15 May 2026 or as agreed. Part-time employment is also possible.

The Fluvial and Coastal Research Group conducts research on fluvial processes, including river dynamics and flood extents, as well as coastal geographical processes. Funding for the group’s research is mainly provided by the Academy of Finland. We are currently seeking:

  • Research Assistants to support fieldwork in river systems, 3–5 months
  • Research Assistants to support data management, 3–5 months

A Research Assistant may be a student pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Geography. As part of the research group, it is also possible to complete a Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis in Geography. Experience in project-based work and relevant fieldwork and modelling tasks will be considered an advantage.

Requirements

The position of Research Assistant requires:

  • Knowledge and competence in geography or another relevant field
  • Willingness to become familiar with hydrology, human–environment interactions, and field measurements in water research
  • Ability to work independently on research tasks and to carry out careful and systematic reporting
  • Readiness for fieldwork and travel
  • Fluent English language skills
  • A valid category B driving licence

We value

  • Knowledge of Finnish and Swedish

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

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Benefits

We offer responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional expertise in a diverse working environment. You will become part of a skilled and inspiring university community, supported by a wide network of experts. We take care of your well-being and everyday work through, among other things, flexible working hours and our well-being services.

Read more about us on the Welcome to Work with Us page, which provides further information on what the university offers its employees.

The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research logo, recognising the university’s commitment to continuously improving the position and working conditions of researchers in line with the principles of the European Charter for Researchers.

Salary and trial period

The salary is determined in accordance with the university salary system for teaching and research personnel. The job requirement level of the position is 1 (2074,47€).  In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance is paid. Salary, based on previous experience and skills, is approximately 2200-2400 euros/month..

The position has a trial period of one month.

How to apply

Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 29.4.2026 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki).

Applicants should enclose with their application:

  • Motivation letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Degree certificates / transcript of records
  • Any other documents relevant to the position

Further information

Further information about the position can be obtained from Petteri Alho, tel. +358 50 570 8333, petteri.alho(at)utu.fi

Further information about the recruitment process is provided by HR Specialist Kaisa Ketomäki, kaisa.ketomaki(at)utu.fi

Department of Geography and Geology

The Department of Geography and Geology is an active and versatile unit which studies the Earth and its dynamic natural and anthropogenic phenomena. We conduct research on several continents and our international collaboration is diverse. We use modern research methodologies and state-of-the-art equipment both in the field and in the laboratory.

In the Faculty of Science, we seek the truth and develop solutions for sustainable future and intelligent society. Science Fiction becomes reality.

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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Information for the applicant

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You have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout.

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Research Assistants (Geography)

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