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.
Responsibilities
- Conduct Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to examine factors leading to positive and negative cooperative sustainability impacts;
- Conduct historical analysis on the sustainability orientation of selected case cooperatives;
- Co-conduct a literature review on cooperative sustainability;
- Co-edit a journal special issue on the sustainability of cooperatives;
- Co-construct and promote a list of lighthouse cooperatives that are exemplary in terms of sustainability;
- Communicate research results through scientific publications and conference presentations;
- Co-supervise PhD and MSc students working on the project;
- Contribute to new research ideas and participate in grant applications;
- Depending on interests and expertise, contribute to teaching in cooperative studies.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate should hold a relevant PhD degree (e.g., business administration, management, sociology, or innovation studies). The degree must be completed by the beginning of employment. Have demonstrated expertise in qualitative research methods, preferably Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA). Have a solid publication record and evidence of scientific motivation and productivity. Be able to work independently as well as collaboratively in a diverse research team. Have excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
Additional merits: Finnish, Dutch, and German language skills; Previous experience with cooperatives and cooperation.
What We Offer
Professional development opportunities within an enthusiastic and supportive research team. Opportunities to pursue your own research interests. Encouragement and support to develop independent research projects and grant applications. Extensive national and international networking opportunities.
Terms of Employment
The salary is based on requirement level 5 of the Finnish university salary system. Expected starting salary approximately €3,600–€4,200 per month. Six-month trial period. The successful candidate is expected to reside in Finland during employment. Primary workplace at either Ruralia Institute, Mikkeli, or Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Viikki Campus, Helsinki. Hybrid and remote work arrangements within Finland may be agreed upon.
