"Postdoctoral Researcher"

The Faculty of Theology at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the project Jeremiah for the 21st Century.

The Faculty of Theology is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher for a 2-year period on the Academy of Finland funded project Jeremiah for the 21st Century (PI: Dr. Miika Tucker). The role involves research on the Peshitta version of Jeremiah and textual criticism of the Book of Jeremiah, related to critical editions for Biblia Hebraica Quinta and The Hebrew Bible: A Critical Edition. The project aims to establish the closest-to-original text of the book of Jeremiah.

The researcher will collaborate closely with the PI. Duties include:

• Collation and text-critical analysis of the Peshitta version of Jeremiah, comparing it with the Masoretic text and Septuagint.
• Sharing and processing textual data on an electronic platform.
• Publishing analytical findings in first-rate journals.
• Teaching and related duties in the Faculty of Theology (5–10%).

This position offers opportunities for creative teamwork in a research-oriented institution in Helsinki, developing expertise in textual studies of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament.

Requirements: Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in biblical studies or a related field, with excellent skills in Syriac and Biblical Hebrew, good command of ancient Greek, experience in textual criticism of the Hebrew Bible, and good English communication skills. Advantages include knowledge of Septuagint textual history, text-critical work, or experience in Computer Science/Digital Humanities.

What we offer: The position starts in January 2026, with a salary of €42,000 - €46,000 annually, based on level 5 of the Finnish university salary system, plus a performance component. It includes a six-month trial period and benefits like occupational health care, sports facilities, and professional development support.

How to apply: Submit the following in PDF format through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system: curriculum vitae, list of publications, Ph.D. certificate, letter of motivation (max. 3 pages), report on teaching merits (max. 2 pages), and names/contact details for two references. The application deadline is October 13, 2025.

For more information, contact Academy Research Fellow Miika Tucker at miika.tucker@helsinki.fi or HR Specialist Reeta Korhonen at hr-teoltdk@helsinki.fi. The University promotes an inclusive and equitable community.