Project researcher; part time), TalentNorth, Faculty of Science

Organisation/Company University of Oulu Research Field Environmental science » Earth science Geography » Human geography Geography » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 20 Feb 2026 - 21:59 (UTC) Country Finland Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Part-time Hours Per Week 30 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Interreg Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 4000 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.

We are now looking for

A project researcher

to work with the project Talent North:
Attracting and Anchoring Global Talent in the Arctic to join us in the Geography Research Unit for a part time (80 %) fixed-term position lasting until 15.7.2028.

The project is a regular Interreg Aurora project (Finland, Sweden and Norway) and it is co-funded by European Regional Development Fund. The project researcher position is located at the The Geography Research Unit, Faculty of Science, University of Oulu.

About the job

Talent North research project consists of research activities and coordination tasks. The project will establish a new joint cross-border collaboration and build an Arctic cross-border model and cooperation for talent attraction and retain. The project is a joint initiative between the Arctic Six (A6) Universities and Cities. In this project, your responsibilities include:

• Conducting research activities in international teams.
• Conducting desk research on regional skill and training needs.
• Conducting focus groups and surveys.
• Reporting and disseminating the findings.
• Stakeholder interaction and workshops in the Aurora region together with project partners.
• Active participation in project meetings (onsite and online).

What we offer

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team, where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Work-life balance: we don't count Saturdays as holiday periods!
• Development and career options of the big organisation.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, excellent education system, and competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu !

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you:

• Master’s degree in geography or a related field. Doctoral studies are considered an advantage.
• Demonstrated experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Proficiency with IBM SPSS Statistics is regarded as a strong asset.
• Strong interest in applied research.
• Open-minded attitude and enthusiasm for international collaboration. Experience of international research collaboration is considered an advantage.
• Excellent communication skills in English; fluency in Finnish is considered an advantage.
• Strong teamwork and time management skills.

The position is part time and fixed term starting from 16.3.2026 until 15.7.2028.

The salary of the selected project researcher will be in accordance with the Finnish universities’ salary system for other expert and support staff level 7-9. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid. Starting gross salary (80 % part time) will be approx. € per month (before taxes) depending on the experience and qualifications of the employee.

Working time 80 % means 30h 12min per week.

A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 20.2.2026 23:59 (Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

[enclosures]

• A motivation letter (max. 1 page) summarizing your ambition and personal goals for research, highlights of prior projects and research experience. Information about your most valuable…