Want to earn approximately €2,900 per month while completing your PhD at one of Europe’s leading research universities? The University of Helsinki has opened applications for 30 salaried Doctoral Researcher positions under the RESDOC MSCA COFUND Programme for 2027. If you meet the eligibility requirements, this four-year employment-based PhD opportunity offers world-class supervision, international research training, relocation support, and the chance to build your career in Finland’s globally respected research ecosystem.

University of Helsinki Doctoral Researcher Positions 2027-Overview

• Host Country: Finland
• Host Institution: University of Helsinki
• Programme: RESDOC Doctoral Researchers Programme
• Degree Level: PhD / Doctoral Research
• Funding Status: Salaried Employment
• Salary: Approximately €2,900 gross per month
• Duration: 4 years (2027–2030)
• Number of Positions: 30
• Employment Type: Full-time, Fixed-term
• Start Date: Between 1 January and 31 March 2027
• Application Deadline: 31 August 2026, 23:59 EET
• Eligible Applicants: International applicants meeting MSCA COFUND eligibility requirements
• Application Status: Open Now

About the University of Helsinki RESDOC Programme

The University of Helsinki Doctoral School (UHDS) invites applications for 30 salaried doctoral researcher positions through the RESDOC Doctoral Training Project. The RESDOC Doctoral Training Project is co-funded by the European Union Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND Scheme and the University of Helsinki. The programme combines doctoral research with interdisciplinary training and international collaboration. Successful applicants will become full-time employees of the University while completing their doctoral degrees.

Entity Snapshot

• University of Helsinki Doctoral School (UHDS) offers 30 Doctoral Researcher positions.
• RESDOC Doctoral Training Project is co-funded by the European Union Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND Programme.
• University of Helsinki hosts 14 doctoral programmes across multiple disciplines.
• Doctoral Researchers complete full-time PhD research under salaried employment.

Research Themes for Helsinki PhD Jobs in Finland

Every research proposal must fit within one of the following four RESDOC themes:

• Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance in Changing Environment
• Biodiversity and Nature’s Resilience
• Secure and Sustainable Food and Water Systems
• Just Socio-Ecological Transition

The programme also includes training in:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Systems Thinking
• Innovation
• Sustainable Development
• Social Responsibility
• Risk Management
• Policy Frameworks

Who Can Apply for Helsinki Finland RESDOC Positions in Europe?

You can apply if you hold a qualifying master’s degree, have not yet earned a PhD, satisfy the MSCA mobility requirements, and submit a research proposal that aligns with one of the RESDOC themes.

Applicants must satisfy all mandatory eligibility requirements by 31 August 2026.

Academic Requirements

• Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification eligible for doctoral studies.
• Do not hold a PhD degree.

Research Experience

• Be an early-stage researcher with less than four years of research experience.

Mobility Requirement

You must comply with the MSCA mobility rule:

• You must not have lived or carried out your main activity in Finland for more than 12 months during the 36 months preceding the application deadline.

Employment Requirement

• You must not be permanently employed by the University of Helsinki.

Language Requirement

• Meet the University of Helsinki English language requirements.

Residence Requirement

• Be willing to reside in Finland throughout the four-year employment period.

How to Apply for University of Helsinki Doctoral Researcher

Step 1: Confirm that you satisfy every MSCA COFUND eligibility and University of Helsinki English language requirements. Prepare a research proposal that aligns with one of the four RESDOC themes.

Step 2: Submit your application through the University of Helsinki Online Recruitment System before the deadline.

Apply Now for University of Helsinki MSCA COFUND PhD Positions in Finland

If you reside in Iran and cannot access the recruitment system, contact: resdoc-dp@helsinki.fi for alternative submission instructions.

Careers Help Desk Value-Add Insights

This programme differs from many traditional PhD scholarships because successful applicants become employees of the University of Helsinki rather than receiving only a student scholarship.

Your research proposal carries significant weight during evaluation. Begin contacting potential supervisors early and tailor your proposal to one of the four RESDOC themes. Strong thematic alignment can strengthen your application.

The MSCA mobility rule eliminates many otherwise qualified applicants. Review your residence history carefully before applying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the MSCA mobility rule.
• Submitting a research proposal outside the four RESDOC themes.
• Applying without meeting English language requirements.
• Waiting until the final day to submit your application.
• Failing to qualify for doctoral study admission during the trial period.

PhD Salary and Benefits in Finland

Successful applicants will receive:

• Approximately €2,900 gross salary per month
• Four-year full-time employment contract
• Salary determined according to Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND principles
• Comprehensive occupational healthcare
• Staff benefits
• High-quality research infrastructure
• Professional research support
• International multidisciplinary research environment
• Relocation and integration support for moving to Finland
• Family allowance where applicable
• Special needs allowance where applicable

Apply Now- Study and Work in Finland

The University of Helsinki RESDOC Doctoral Researchers Programme 2027 offers an excellent opportunity for early-stage researchers seeking a fully salaried PhD in Europe. With 30 funded positions, a competitive monthly salary, international research training, and strong European collaboration through the MSCA COFUND programme, this is one of Finland’s most attractive doctoral recruitment calls. If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your research proposal early and submit your application before 31 August 2026 through the official University of Helsinki recruitment portal.

Official Source: Doctoral Researchers (30 positions) in various disciplines at the University of Helsinki, Finland

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international students apply?

Yes. International applicants who satisfy the MSCA COFUND and University of Helsinki eligibility requirements may apply.

Is this a scholarship or employment?

It is salaried employment. Successful applicants receive approximately €2,900 gross per month while completing their doctoral studies.

How many positions are available?

Thirty positions are available under the RESDOC Doctoral Training Project.

Do I need a PhD before applying?

No. Applicants must not already hold a PhD degree.

When is the application deadline?

The deadline is 31 August 2026 at 23:59 Eastern European Time (EET).

Alternative Opportunities

If this opportunity does not match your academic profile, consider these alternatives:

• If you want a fully funded public policy master’s degree, explore the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme 2027 in Germany.
• If you are looking for a prestigious fully funded graduate scholarship in Canada, read the McCall MacBain Scholarships 2027.
• If you plan to apply for fully funded Scholarships in the UK, consider the Rhodes Scholarship 2027 in UK (Fully Funded).