About the opportunity
The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Helsinki invites applications for 1-2 Postdoctoral Researcher positions in the Study of Ancient Near East for a fixed-term employment contract of 12-14 months, starting between 1 November 2026 and 1 January 2027. We are looking for an employee with a background in the study of the ancient Near East, such as Assyriology, Egyptology, History, Theology, Archaeology, or a similar applicable field of science. The position offers an opportunity to carry out original research in the form of a concise research project. Additionally, circa 5% of working time should be allocated to teaching and/or supervision duties. Research is conducted as part of the ANEE+ research community focusing on the Eastern Mediterranean and Western Asia from prehistory to late antiquity.
Salary and benefits
- Full salary for 12-14 months based on level 5 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research personnel in Finnish universities
- Annual gross salary ranging from €43,200 to €50,400, plus a personal performance component
- Paid holiday averaging approximately 5-6 weeks per year within the 1,612 annual working hour system
- Comprehensive employee services including occupational health care, health insurance, and sports facilities
- Support for internationally recruited employees with transition to life and work in Finland
- Access to limited travel funding to be negotiated separately
Who can apply?
- Hold a doctoral degree in Assyriology, Egyptology, History, Theology, Archaeology, or a similar applicable field
- Ability and motivation to conduct an independent postdoctoral research project according to the research proposal
- Residency in Finland for the duration of the employment contract is required
Required documents
- A curriculum vitae including a list of publications
- Names of two people who can provide a reference
- A short 1-2 page research plan outlining the scope, aims, and applicant's expertise
- Certificate of a Doctoral degree
When to apply
- Due Date: 27.9.2026 at 23.59 Europe/Helsinki time
How to apply
- Submit the application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system using the apply link
- Current employees of the University of Helsinki must submit applications through SAP Fiori's Suffeli recruitment portal
Additional information
- The position is filled with a six-month trial period.
- The start date is between 1 November 2026 and 1 January 2027.
- For further information about the position, contact Professor Saana Svärd; for recruitment process inquiries, contact HR Specialist Harri Hamara.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Researchers with a doctoral degree in fields like Assyriology, Egyptology, History, Theology, or Archaeology.
- Scholars interested in contributing to the ANEE+ research community focusing on the Eastern Mediterranean and Western Asia.
- Candidates motivated to conduct an independent research project with a minor teaching component.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is strictly fixed-term for 12-14 months, which may require planning for subsequent career steps.
- Residency in Finland is a mandatory requirement for the duration of the contract.
- The role includes a six-month trial period, which is standard for this type of appointment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is ideal for a postdoctoral researcher looking to advance their academic profile through a concise, independent project within a specialized research community. It provides a stable, fully-funded environment for 12-14 months, allowing the appointee to focus on research output while gaining valuable teaching and supervision experience in a Finnish university setting.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for early-career scholars in Ancient Near Eastern studies who are prepared for a short-term, research-focused role in Helsinki. Those seeking long-term stability should note the fixed-term nature of the contract.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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