University Researcher in the study of Ancient Near East

About the opportunity

The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Helsinki is seeking 1-2 University Researchers in the study of the Ancient Near East for a 12-14 month fixed-term contract starting between November 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027. The successful candidate will carry out original research within the ANEE+ Interdisciplinary Research Network, which focuses on the Eastern Mediterranean and Western Asia from prehistory to late antiquity. The role includes conducting a concise research project and allocating approximately 5% of working time to teaching and/or supervision duties.

Salary and benefits

• Annual gross salary of ’54,000 to ’67,000, based on levels 6-7 of the Finnish university salary system plus a personal performance component.
• Access to limited travel funding, negotiated separately.
• Comprehensive employee services, including occupational healthcare, health insurance, sports facilities, and professional development opportunities.
• Relocation and transition support for internationally recruited employees.
• Generous paid holiday system of approximately 5-6 weeks per year under the 1,612 annual working hour system.

Who can apply?

• Must hold a doctoral degree in Assyriology, Egyptology, History, Theology, Archaeology, or a similar applicable field of science.
• Evidence of active publication in recent years.
• Demonstration of other scholarly activity, such as independent research activity.
• Ability to lead a research group, participate in Finnish or international research networks, and experience in acquiring research funding.
• Required teaching skills for the position.
• Ability and motivation to conduct an independent research project according to the submitted research proposal.
• Must reside in Finland for the duration of the employment contract.

Required documents

• Curriculum Vitae (including a list of publications)
• Names of two reference providers
• A short 1-2 page research plan outlining the scope, aims, and relevant expertise for the proposed project
• Doctoral degree certificate

When to apply

• Applications must be submitted by September 27, 2026, at 23:59 PM (Europe/Helsinki time).
• The employment contract is scheduled to start between November 1, 2026, and January 1, 2027.

How to apply

• Prepare the required documents (CV, reference names, research plan, and doctoral certificate) in PDF format.
• External applicants must submit their application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking the 'Apply now' link.
• Current employees of the University of Helsinki must apply through the SAP Fiori Suffeli recruitment portal.

Additional information

• The position is filled with a six-month trial period.
• The research project must be carried out physically at the University of Helsinki.
• For further academic inquiries, contact Professor Saana Svrd (saana.svard@helsinki.fi). For recruitment process questions, contact HR Specialist Harri Hamara (hr-humtdk@helsinki.fi).