The Faculty of Science at the University of Turku is inviting applications for a fixed-term doctoral researcher/project researcher position at the Department of Geography and Geology. The employment will begin on 1 September 2026 or as agreed, and lasts 24 months.
The doctoral researcher/project researcher will work in the FLORES project, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The aim of the project is to study the potential genetic link between the Lithium–Cesium–Tantalum (LCT) pegmatites and orogenic gold systems, and to model the generation of post-orogenic hydrothermal fluids and their role in the evolution of the bedrock. The project will be carried out at University of Turku in collaboration with several universities and research institutes.
Job description
The duties of the doctoral researcher/project researcher include the study of LCT pegmatites and orogenic gold deposits in southern and western Finland. Particular emphasis will be placed on modelling hydrothermal processes using fluid inclusion studies and isotopic analyses. In addition, fieldwork will be conducted at selected study sites.
The position includes two research visits of 1–3 months each to RWTH Aachen University in Germany, focusing on fluid inclusion analyses.
The research project can be tailored to some extent according to the applicant’s own research interests and areas of expertise.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking a motivated doctoral researcher with an interest in both fieldwork and laboratory research, the ability to learn and apply new geochemical and isotope-geological methods, and a willingness to undertake a dissertation based on a series of scientific publications.
The successful applicant is expected to have:
- A MSc degree in Geology or a related geoscience discipline
- Willingness to engage in both field and laboratory work
- An interest in scientific questions related to and studying ore-forming processes and the evolution of the bedrock
- The ability to work independently and to produce careful, systematic documentation and reporting
- Fluency in English
Experience in project-based research and in the analysis and interpretation of geochemical, isotope-geological, or structural geological data will be considered an advantage.
A Master’s degree (MSc) in a relevant field, completed before the application deadline, is required for the position.
Selection will be based on identifying the most qualified and suitable applicant, with particular emphasis on research potential, motivation, and personal suitability for the role. Eligibility requirements are defined in the University of Turku regulations.
The initial job title will be determined based on the candidate’s study rights: candidates who already hold the right to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Turku may be appointed as Doctoral Researchers, while others will be appointed as Project Researchers and are expected to apply for the study right in the next available call to the Doctoral Programme in Biology, Geography, and Geology, How to apply for the doctoral degree study right at the Faculty of Science.
Read more about the University of Turku's doctoral programmes and how to apply for study rights Join us for your doctoral studies at the University of Turku! | University of Turku
The qualification requirements for doctoral researchers/ project researchers are set in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure
We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.
Benefits
Please read more about University of Turku as an employer from our Come work with us! pages.
The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers.
The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:
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 2 (2331,67€) – 4 (2907,24€). In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance is paid. Salary, based on previous experience and skills, is approximately 2600 -3200 euros/month at the beginning of the assignment.
The position has a trial period of six months.
How to apply
Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is Monday 3.8.2026 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki).
Applicants should enclose with their application:
- Motivation letter
- CV (including publications, if any)
- Names and contact details of one or more academic referees
- Degree certificate(s)
Other documents demonstrating the applicant’s merits and suitability can be attached under “Other attachments.”
Further information
For further information about the position, please contact: Jaakko Kara, Jaakko.kara(at)utu.fi
With questions about the application process, please contact: HR-specialist Kaisa Ketomäki, kaisa.ketomaki(at)utu.fi
