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Institution: University of Helsinki Position OverviewRuralia Institute at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Sustainability of Cooperatives for a contract starting at the earliest October 2026 and ending in December 2029. The appointed person will join the Sustainability and Community Enterprises research group led by Academy Research Fellow Taneli Vaskelainen. The successful candidate will work in the SUSTRACOOP project (Understanding the Role of Cooperatives in Sustainability Transitions), funded by the Research Council of Finland. Cooperatives are a key part of the global economy, employing approximately 10% of the world's working population, and have been identified as important vehicles of sustainability transitions by both researchers and societal stakeholders. However, understanding of their sustainability impact remains limited because transition studies have largely focused on small organizations in emerging sectors, while management studies have paid relatively little attention to the cooperative organizational form. SUSTRACOOP conceptualizes the role of cooperatives in promoting or inhibiting sustainability transitions. The project focuses on large cooperatives in the food, forestry, and retail sectors. ResponsibilitiesThe successful candidate will:
Candidate ProfileThe successful candidate should:
The following are considered additional merits:
What We OfferThe University of Helsinki offers:
About the University of HelsinkiThe University of Helsinki ranks among the world's leading multidisciplinary research universities. The university comprises:
About the Ruralia InstituteThe Ruralia Institute is part of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry at the University of Helsinki. The institute provides high-quality research and innovation partnerships supporting rural development. Its multidisciplinary research focuses on:
The institute collaborates extensively with international, national, and regional partners and employs approximately 50 experts located at university centres in Mikkeli and Seinäjoki. Terms of EmploymentThe salary is based on requirement level 5 of the Finnish university salary system for teaching and research personnel. In addition to the salary level, a personal performance component will be paid. Expected starting salary: approximately €3,600–€4,200 per month, depending on experience. Additional employment conditions include:
Living and Working in FinlandFinland is one of the world's most liveable countries, offering:
University employees receive additional benefits, including:
Application InstructionsApplications must be submitted in English through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System using the "Apply Now" button. Current University of Helsinki employees should apply using the Employee Login. Please submit one PDF file containing: 1. Motivation Letter (maximum 1 page)The letter should include:
2. Curriculum VitaeInclude:
3. Complete List of PublicationsApplication Deadline18 August 2026 23:59 (Europe/Helsinki Time) Further InformationPositionAcademy Research Fellow Taneli Vaskelainen Email: taneli.vaskelainen@helsinki.fi Recruitment SystemHR Specialists
Email: recruitment@helsinki.fi Additional information:
Equality, Diversity and InclusionA diverse and equitable study and work culture is important at the University of Helsinki. The University actively promotes an inclusive academic community and encourages all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Applicants are encouraged to read more about accessibility and inclusivity at the University. Position Information
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