Doctoral Researcher, Philosophy

Karlstad University; Jyväskylä; On-site; EUR 40 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent research institution in Jyväskylä is seeking a Doctoral Researcher in Philosophy to work on a project focused on Illuminationist Philosophy in the Islamic World. The candidate must hold a Master's degree and possess knowledge of classical Arabic and English. The role involves completing a doctoral thesis and assisting in teaching tasks. This four-year position provides opportunities for research within a vibrant academic community.

Benefits

Opportunities for academic collaboration

Active and healthy lifestyle in Jyväskylä

Vibrant cultural scene in the city

Qualifications

• Completed Master's degree in Philosophy or suitable field.
• Sufficient knowledge of classical Arabic for primary sources.
• Ability to work adequately in English.

Responsibilities

• Write a doctoral dissertation on Shams al-Dīn al-Shahrazūrī.
• Assist in teaching tasks and related responsibilities.
• Focus on research completion towards a doctoral thesis.

Skills

Classical Arabic

English proficiency

Academic writing

Education

Master's degree in Philosophy or relevant field

Job description

The JYU is a nationally and internationally significant research university and an expert on education that focuses on human and natural sciences.

The Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy is seeking to recruit aDoctoral Researcher in Philosophyfor a 4-year fixed-term contract. The contract begins on 12 January 2026 or thereafter, depending on mutual agreement. The fixed-term position is for doctoral studies.

The position is based in Professor Jari Kaukua’s research project Illuminationist Philosophy in the Islamic World (ISHRAQ) which is funded by the Research Council of Finland. ISHRAQ’s goal is to study Shihāb al-Dīn al-Suhrawardī’s philosophical legacy from the thirteenth to the seventeenth century CE, and to create an online database of Illuminationist texts.

Who we are looking for

We are hiring a Doctoral Researcher, who will write a doctoral dissertation on Shams al-Dīn al-Shahrazūrī within the project. The Doctoral Researcher should have a completed Master's degree in Philosophy or in another suitable field, as well as sufficient knowledge of classical Arabic to enable work with untranslated primary sources. The ability to work adequately in English is essential. A strong academic record is advantageous.

The Doctoral Researcher must have a right to postgraduate degree studies at the University of Jyväskylä. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.

The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2500 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.

How to apply?

Please attach the following documents in English in PDF format to the online application form:

• Your MA thesis text, and evaluations, if available (attach to "research plan")
• A copy of the diploma of your highest degree (i.e., MA).
• Study transcripts with grade results (attach to "other attachment").

Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by December 7th, 2025. Applications sent via email are not considered.

For further information, please contact Professor Jari Kaukua, [phone]. You can also ask a further description of the project by email, [e-mail].

Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.

Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences - a pioneer in research and education. The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä is a multidisciplinary scientific and learning community, with a unique combination of humanities and social science research, education and expertise. Our research is internationally renowned and socially influential, focusing on areas such as culture, languages, communication, social sciences and philosophy. The humanities play a significant role predicting global developmental trends and social changes as well as in meeting societal challenges and managing large masses of information.

Our strength is our strong sense of community and an open and diverse academic atmosphere. Come build your career in a faculty that values you as a professional and offers opportunities for growth and international collaboration! More information about the faculty: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (jyu.fi/en)

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.

The application form cannot be saved as a draft. However, after submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.