The University of Helsinki is a multidisciplinary research university that ranks among the best in the world and the top ten among European universities. The university has some 36,000 degree students.

The Department of Geosciences and Geography (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-of-science/faculty/geosciences-and-ge...) at the Faculty of Science is the leading research and education unit in its field in Finland. In addition to research in geology, geophysics and geography, research into seismology and official duties in the field of seismology is carried out at the department. The staff at the department numbers some 100.

Faculty of Science invites applications for

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER

in human geography, urban studies, spatial planning or a related field starting from 1.4.2021 or as agreed for fixed-term employment contracts until 31.12.2022. A six-month trial period will be applied.

The postdoctoral researcher will work on the project RE:URBIA (2020–2022), that is part of the Lähiöohjelma research program, funded by the Ministry of Environment/ARA. The RE:URBIA project forcuses on the current state and development potential of the Finnish suburban housing estates of 1960s’ and 70s’, and facilitate new visions and goals for their development. The project offers a multidisciplinary basis to understand the multidimensional processes of segregation that continue to contribute to the differentiation of the social life and access to services and residential decisions in cities, leading to unequal opportunities. We aim for high quality academic research with a strong societal impact for the development of suburban housing estates, specifically through the potential of local social networks and the role of neighbourhood schools. The research project brings together more than 20 researchers from the University of Helsinki, Aalto University and partner municipalities. The research project is led by assistant professor Venla Bernelius / URBARIA.
https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-urban-and-regional-studies

We are seeking for postdoctoral researcher to join the RE:URBIA project team in the Department of Geoscience and geography. The main task is to participate in research on suburban housing estates through both quantitative and qualitative datasets and methods, and to contribute to conducting a survey-based study on housing choice and neighbourhood satisfaction. To be successful in this position, applicants should have a PhD in human geography, urban studies, spatial planning or a related field and capability to handle large datasets (e.g surveys). A candidate close to completion of their PhD may be considered for the position. The specific focus of the position will be agreed with the candidate depending on their scientific background and interests. The successful candidate is expected to have excellent scholarly communication and reporting skills in English, a proven publication record as well as the ability to conduct independent and creative research. Proficiency in Finnish is considered an advantage.

Finland is a member of EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. For more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland, please see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/university/working-at-the-university.

The starting salary of the postdoctoral researcher will be ca. 3300–3700 euros/month, depending on the appointees’ qualifications and experience. Furthermore, the University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.

How to apply

Please submit your application consisting of (1) a cover letter (incl. research interest), (2) a curriculum vitae and a publications list in a single pdf file using the University of Helsinki Recruitment System by clicking the Apply for the position button below. Applicants who are employees of the University of Helsinki must submit their applications via the SAP HR portal.

Deadline for applications is 15.3.

For further information, please contact Assistant professor Venla Bernelius venla.bernelius@helsinki.fi or professor Mari Vaattovaara mari.vaattovaara@helsinki.fi.

Due date

15.03.2021 23:59 EET