Postdoctoral Researcher, Digital Humanities; History of Philosophy, Arabic Philology

Offer Description

The Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy is seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher in Digital Humanities (History of Philosophy, Arabic Philology) for a 4-year fixed-term contract. The contract begins on 1 April 2026 or as agreed.

The position is fixed-term, as it is based in Professor Jari Kaukua’s research project 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.

We are hiring a Postdoctoral Researcher who will contribute to the construction of the database of Illuminationist texts. The Postdoctoral Researcher should have a completed Doctoral degree in Philosophy, Islamic studies, Arabic philology, or in another suitable field. The Researcher should also have strong expertise in applying digital methods to research on large textual corpora, including requisite programming skills, 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.

You would be part of an international team, in which everyone’s well-being is important. In addition to contributing to the construction of the database, we offer an opportunity to conduct your own research on the project’s themes with an especial view to facilitating your career development. We offer the possibility to learn and develop your academic career within JYU and Finland, but also to develop networks, mobility and career opportunities internationally.

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 this Postdoctoral Researcher’s position is determined based on the task-specific demand level 5 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately  €/month (gross income), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. We also support your relocation to Jyväskylä with a settling-in allowance.

Please make sure that your ORCID profile ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) works: your publications are listed and public (Set visibility: Everyone). You cannot apply to this job without an ORCID profile.

The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:

• A copy of the diploma of your highest degree.
• Your doctoral dissertation text, and evaluations, if available (attach to “research plan”).
• Study transcripts with grade results (attach to “other attachment”).

Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by 1 February 2026
. Applications sent via email will not be considered.

For further information, please contact Professor Jari Kaukua, . You can also ask for a further description of the project by email, jari.kaukua.

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.

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