Institute for Advanced Study

Introduction As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. The primary responsibility of this role is to deliver on an industry innovation research project where you will be part of the research team to develop software platforms for supporting multi-user AR/VR applications. Key Responsibilities Participate in the research project with Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI and the research team members to ensure all project deliverables are met. Undertake the following responsibilities: Develop an interactive metaverse application for online education, team collaboration, and workplace training with a focus on real-time interactive simulation. Optionally, design and lead user study. Analyze the data and publish academic research papers in international academic conferences/journals Perform testing Carry out Risk Assessment, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations. Work independently, as well as within a team, to ensure proper operation and maintenance of equipment. Job Requirements A degree in Computer Science or relevant field Experience with software development life cycle Software Development: Strong knowledge in Javascript for 3D/VR applications (e.g., babylon.js, A-Frame, etc.). Experience in developing XR app for teaching & learning/training. Experience developing optimized modules within Unity and/or Unreal Engine Experience with database management systems User study – Optional. End-to-End Study Leadership: Lead the full lifecycle of user research, from defining objectives and methodologies (e.g., usability, A/B testing, interviews) to facilitating sessions and extracting unbiased, actionable insights. Scientific Authoring & Publication: Drive the creation of high-quality research papers for top-tier peer-reviewed venues (e.g., CHI, UIST, CSCW), translating complex technical architectures and study results into compelling academic narratives. Ethical Oversight & IRB Management: Manage the formal Institutional Review Board (IRB) process, ensuring all protocols, data handling, and participant interactions meet the highest ethical and legal standards for human-subjects research. Advanced Data Synthesis: Analyze qualitative and quantitative data to identify deep behavioral patterns, using these findings to ground both product development and scholarly contributions in empirical evidence.

Job Purpose The Professional Officers Division (POD) houses a centralized pool of academic staff under the Professional Officers scheme. Professional Officers come with specialised and deep technical skills acquired through extensive industry experience. They form the talent pool which brings a much-needed industry perspective to student learning. They facilitate applied learning and applied research in SIT, complementing the academic expertise of the faculty to bring industry practices and applications into the curriculum. Professional Officers leverage on their industry experiences to create authentic learning environments, where discovery and innovation take place. They act as coaches and mentors to students during practical learning activities such as laboratory sessions, Capstone Projects and the Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP). Professional Officers could also lead or work with faculty on industry innovation projects to provide solutions to the industry. In addition to their role in applied learning and applied research, Professional Officers manage the centralised laboratory facilities and resources in SIT. With Technical Officers, laboratory safety professionals, and administrators in POD, they jointly develop central policies and processes for the safe and seamless operation of laboratories in SIT. Key Responsibilities Design and teach labs & practice modules. Mentor students in Capstone Projects and the Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP). Lead or co-lead innovation projects with industry. Manage labs and equipment to support academic programmes and applied research. Ensure safety in labs. Job Requirements A good degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field. Masters, PhD and/or relevant professional certifications would be advantageous. Track record in project leadership and impactful industry experience in Chemical Process Technology. Deep technical specialist with 10 or more years of working experience in unit operations (e.g. Heat Exchanger, Distillation Column, Reactors, Cooling Tower etc). Practical knowledge of Quality Management Systems and Engineering standards including but not limited to ISO9001, OSHA and BSI etc. Practiced in Chemical Process Design software (for e.g. HYSYS) Proficiency in analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and related methods, with a focus on biopharmaceutical analysis would be an advantage. Strong supervisory skills and enjoy working closely with students in an educational environment. Demonstrate proficiency to keep abreast of development in the field and pursue professional certification programs. Possess industrial certifications in relevant areas will be an added advantage.

Research engineer, Optics of Photosynthesis Laboratory, Department of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki About the position  We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled research engineer to strengthen the technical capabilities of the Optics of Photosynthesis Laboratory (OPL) (https://blogs.helsinki.fi/optics-of-photosynthesis/ ) and to support the implementation of the PHOCUS project (Photosynthetic Optics for Critical Understanding of plant and ecoSystem function) funded by the Jane & Aatos Erkko Foundation. Duration of the fixed-term contract: 3 years with possibility of extension. Starting date: latest by 1.6.2026. As a research engineer, you will oversee and execute the development and implementation of innovative solutions for advanced measurements of biophysical and photosynthetic traits of leaves and plants, both in laboratory and field conditions. In addition, you will contribute to the basic operation of OPL and the development of research infrastructure both within INAR (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/inar) and the Department of Forest Sciences (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-agriculture-and-forestry/research/forest-sciences) at the University of Helsinki.  Key responsibilities Execute the development of new instrumentation for comprehensive measurement of spectral and photosynthetic properties of leaves and plants in close collaboration with OPL scientists and collaborators.  Manage and oversee the smooth day-to-day operation of OPL infra, including maintenance of laboratory equipment, following calibration schedules and protocols.  Provide technical support to team’s researchers, including participation in field campaigns, laboratory experiments and data analysis.  Produce technical materials for instrument operation, calibration and maintenance, and contribute to the preparation of reports.  Required qualifications and skills  We are looking for an experienced and open-minded person with strong problem-solving skills and a solutions-driven mindset who can design, assemble, and automate custom measurement systems by integrating sensors, electronics, hardware and software. Ideally, you have a MSc in engineering (e.g. electrical, mechanical, automation, robotics, environmental), applied physics, or other relevant field. A PhD degree can be an asset but is not a requirement. Minimum requirements:  Experience in the design and construction of embedded-systems for the measurement of chamber-based gas fluxes, spectral properties, and/or environmental parameters, through integration of hardware, sensors, electronics, microcomputers (e.g. Raspberry Pi, Arduino, ESP32 or similar) and custom-made software.  Advanced level in one of these programming languages: Python, C, C++  Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and document technical procedures clearly  Capacity to travel occasionally and participate in intensive field campaigns  Driving license and willing to do occasional work outdoors in harsh conditions Good English (working language) and communication skills to liaise with a wide range of national and international collaborators. Desirable experience or assets:  Experience with the use of spectrometers and spectral imaging systems, including their calibration.  Knowledge of Finnish language (B1 or B2)  Experience in conducting drone-based measurements  Demonstrated experience with the construction and use of one or more of the following: LED assemblies, temperature control systems, gas exchange chamber systems, IRGAs, spectral systems, lidar, multisensor drone assemblies.  Previous experience in coordination of laboratory activities and technical support.  3D printing / CAD / prototyping Familiarity with plant sciences, plant ecophysiology, ecology.  What do we offer  The Optics of Photosynthesis Laboratory (OPL) is a small and highly international group composed of some 10-15 researchers. Our Laboratory develops methods and theory to facilitate the interpretation of optical data acquired from leaves, plants and entire ecosystems, in terms of plant functional traits such as photosynthesis. We collaborate with a wide range of scientists and communities from molecular biologists to Earth System Scientists, from companies to artists. OPL is integrated within the multidisciplinary Department of Forest Sciences, the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry and the Institute for Atmospheric and Earth System Research (INAR).  With this position we will offer you:  A technically challenging position in a vibrant research environment with possibilities to directly see the full impact of your work.  A salary based on levels 8-9 of the requirements level chart for specialist and support staff in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal work performance. Monthly gross salary will vary between 3 400-4 300 euros/month (42 500-53 750 euros/year) depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience.  A supportive, open, and inclusive working environment with flexible working conditions and opportunities for professional development.  How to apply  To apply for the position please attach the following documents to your application as a single PDF file (in Finnish or English):  A motivation letter (max 1 page)  A description detailing the relevant knowledge and experience that you have accumulated in relation to the position (max 1 page)  A curriculum vitae (CV) and contact information for two referees (max 2 pages)  Copy of degree(s) certificates.  If you need help with the recruitment portal, please contact uni-help@helsinki.fi Deadline for applications is 20.4.2026 (at 23.59 EET) A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University. JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER! #HelsinkiUniCareers