Finland and Northern European Security Research Programme
The regional focus of the programme is Finland’s immediate security environment, developments in which have direct implications for Finland’s national security. The programme broadly monitors various aspects of Finland’s foreign, security, and defence policy, including Finland’s relations with major powers, its military cooperation, NATO’s activities, and the development of NATO’s defence and deterrence posture (including nuclear deterrence), Nordic cooperation, and Russia’s foreign, security, and defence policy in relation to Finland. The thematic scope of the research also includes Finland’s security of supply, national resilience policy, and issues related to the comprehensive security approach.

We are particularly seeking a candidate with strong expertise in one of the following alternative areas:
a. Finnish defence and security policy and NATO activities, including nuclear deterrence.
b. Hybrid threats and broad-spectrum influence activities, resilience policy in Finland, the European Union, and NATO.

Global Security and Governance Research Programme
The Global Security and Governance Research Programme focuses on international political and economic relations and their security implications amid the transformation of the global order. In addition to systemic changes, the programme emphasizes the multidimensional competition between the United States and China for global leadership, as well as challenges related to global governance, particularly climate change policy and technological development. The programme includes the Center on US Politics and Power, The Center on Global Orders and China, and the Center on Climate Politics and Security. During the upcoming programme period, a new research centre focusing on geoeconomics and emerging technologies will also be established.

We are seeking a researcher specializing in emerging technologies and technology policy, with deep expertise in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cybersecurity, and issues related to their international governance. We value research expertise on technology as a source of economic power and an instrument of power projection. We are also looking for experience in assessing technological developments, regulatory environments, and their security and geopolitical implications, as well as experience in research and expert work supporting decision-making.

We welcome applications from researchers at different stages of their careers, including both doctoral-level and master’s-level researchers. The Institute’s working language is English.

Successful performance in the position requires strong expertise in the designated field and readiness to work in a think tank–style research community. Excellent collaboration skills are considered an asset. 

We offer the opportunity to contribute to the production of knowledge that supports society and informed decision-making. The role provides the chance to explore current and emerging issues in depth, conduct high-quality research, and collaborate with experts, public authorities, and international networks. 

The person selected for the position might need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More detailed information on the procedure and the subject's rights is available at www.supo.fi.

Applications in English, addressed to the Deputy Director of the Institute, must be submitted through the valtiolle.fi website no later than 4 December 2026 at 16:15. Applications must clearly indicate the research programme for which the applicant is applying.

Application documents will not be returned.

Applicants are requested to attach: A curriculum vitae (maximum five pages), including their most significant academic achievements and other evidence demonstrating qualifications and professional merits; a separate list of publications; and A preliminary research plan outlining the research work the applicant intends to carry out.

Further details on the research work and other FIIA activities are available on our website at www.fiia.fi.

For more information on the tasks, please contact Acting Deputy Director Harri Mikkola 23.11.2026 at 13-14 (EET) or 24.11.2026 at 10–11 (EET), tel. +358 9 432 7701 or harri.mikkola(at)fiia.fi.

The Registry of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs

Arkadiankatu 23b
00100 Helsinki

The Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA) is an independent research institute operating in connection with the Finnish Parliament. Its mission is to produce high-quality research, support political decision-making and participate in the academic and public debate both nationally and internationally. The research at the institute focuses on international politics, economic relations, the European Union and Finnish foreign and security policy.

• More information: We value experience in producing research-based knowledge, conducting policy analysis, and assessing security and defence policy developments to support decision-making. One position is available in each research programme.
• Level of position: Specialists
• Remote work: Full-time or part-time remote work
• Description of the remote work: There is a possibility to work remotely part of the week.
• Reason for fixed-term employment: Nature of work
• Working time format: Office working hours
• Trial period: 4 months
• Remuneration information: The salary will depend on the selected candidate’s qualifications and work experience.