Doctoral researcher in global development studies

The Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of Helsinki invites applications for the position of

DOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT STUDIES

for a fixed term of at least three years starting on 1 March 2027 (or as agreed). Successful candidates are expected to work full-time.

The position is part of the project, Forests At Tipping points in the Era of Post-truth and Polycrisis: Insights from Brazil and Finland (FATE) (funded by Research Council of Finland 2024-2030). The FATE project examines deforestation and clearcutting in Brazil and Finland as key contributors to approaching climatic ecological tipping points. Through interviews, participant observation, qualitative documentary analysis and analysis of discourses in official documents and the media, the project creates understanding of the links between post-truth politics and approaching tipping point events, creating a better understanding of the societal effects of tipping points, while aiming to identify ways to mitigate their worst effects. The project is led by Markus Kröger.

About the position

The appointee will be responsible for the production of research material in Brazil (in-situ fieldwork, media and online ethnography, conducting interviews and observation). The successful candidate will thus be required to spend periods of time in Brazil over the course of their employment.

Working closely with the Principal Investigator, the appointee will play a key role in WP which focuses on the role of global climatic ecological tipping points in the political economy and policy-making processes of forests. The appointee will be expected to publish articles, independently and jointly, based on the empirical material produced, as well as participating in project communications, organizing project events and other tasks relating to the project. Duties will also include teaching (up to 5% of annual working time).

Qualifications and selection criteria

Applicants must hold a master's degree and