The TurkuNLP research group at the University of Turku invites applications for a fixed-term Postdoctoral Researcher position in Natural Language Processing (NLP). Employment begins in September 2026 at the earliest (or upon agreement) and continues for 20 months.
Job description
We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on multilingual text embeddings, with a particular focus on controllable embeddings and methods for textual similarity. The project investigates how current embedding models encode different types of information, such as factual content, topic, style, language, domain, or register, and how these aspects contribute to embedding similarity. The broader goal is to develop embedding methods that support aspect-specific or conditional notions of textual similarity.
The exact research questions and methods will be shaped by the candidate’s expertise and interests. Possible directions include, but are not limited to:
- task-specific fine-tuning of embedding models
- instruction-following retrieval and representation models
- analysis of embedding space properties
- conditional or aspect-specific textual similarity
- information privacy in embedding models
- applications of embedding models for detecting distributional patterns in web-scale datasets
Additionally, the candidate is expected to participate in the supervision of junior researchers. The position may also include a limited amount of teaching (e.g., 5% of working time or upon agreement).
The position is integrated within the TurkuNLP research group environment, which constitutes nearly 40 researchers at all career stages, spanning a broad range of research topics from methodological NLP to digital language studies and humanities. TurkuNLP offers excellent collaboration opportunities, as well as access to substantial compute resources on the national supercomputing infrastructure.
Who we are looking for
We welcome candidates with backgrounds in natural language processing, machine learning, information retrieval, computational linguistics, or related fields.
The successful candidate is expected to have:
- A doctoral degree in the abovementioned areas (applicants who have completed almost all doctoral studies can also be considered, see below)
- Strong machine learning and programming skills relevant to modern NLP (including at least python, pytorch, and Huggingface libraries)
- Prior experience with text embedding models
- The ability to work independently while also contributing to the activities of the broader research group
Qualification requirements
The eligibility criteria for prospective applicants are defined in the University of Turku's Rules of Procedure: university-of-turku-rules-of-procedure.pdf
A person selected for the post of postdoctoral researcher is required to have a doctoral degree and the ability to conduct independent scientific work as well as having the necessary teaching skills.
We primarily seek to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher. However, in exceptional cases, applicants who have completed almost all doctoral studies required for a PhD in a relevant field may also be considered. In such cases, the job title at the start of the employment will be Project Researcher and salary will be in the beginning on average 3100–3300 euros/month, depending on previous experience and skills. A person selected for the post of Project researcher is required to have a higher university degree. When assessing the merits of the applicants, special emphasis will be placed on competence and practical expertise in the field in question.
We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.
Benefits
We offer you responsible and interesting tasks and the opportunity to develop your professional skills in a versatile operating environment. You get a professional and inspiring team to support your work. We take care of your well-being at work and the functionality of your everyday life, e.g. with the help of flexible working hours and our well-being services.
Please read more about University of Turku as an employer from our Come work with us! pages.
The European Commission has awarded the University of Turku the right to use the HR Excellence in Research quality label. The label is a token of the University's commitment to continuous development of the position and working conditions of researchers according to the guidelines set forth in the European Charter for Researchers.
The university offers good support and orientation for international hires. Please learn more about the Finnish culture and relocation to Finland:
The University of Turku is among the top of the world’s universities in most rankings and among the best universities in the world in certain fields. Our high-quality basic research, a multidisciplinary research profile and close cooperation in research infrastructures creates the basis for international top research. Read more about University of Turku in international university rankings.
The University of Turku has several high-quality research infrastructures required for cutting-edge research. Learn more about the roadmap of research infrastructures and how the research infrastructure and expert teams offer tailored solutions for businesses and organizations.
Salary and trial period
The salary is determined in accordance with the university salary system for teaching and research personnel and will depend on the degree and qualifications of the applicant.
For a postdoctoral researcher (OV5-OV6), the salary will be in the beginning of the employment on average 3700–4600 euros/month, depending on previous experience and skills.
The amount of the salary is defined when the employment contract is prepared.
A six (6) month trial period applies to the position.
How to apply
Please submit your application through our online recruitment system. The closing date for applications is 17 August 2026 at 16.00 (Europe/Helsinki)
Please submit your application and accompanying documents in English. Applicants should include the following documents:
- A motivation letter (approx. 1 page), summarizing the applicant’s most relevant scientific work, own contributions, and research interests in the area of the position
- An academic CV, including education, positions, professional experience, as well as names and contact details of two academic referees
- A list of publications
- Any other documents that may be relevant to the filling of the position (Attach as “Other attachment” in the portal)
Further information
Home page of the research group: TurkuNLP
For further information about the position, please contact: University Lecturer Jenna Kanerva, [email protected].
With questions about the application process, please contact: HR Specialist Nina Reini, [email protected].
University of Turku reserves the right for justified reasons to leave the position open, to extend the application period, reopen the application process, and to consider candidates who have not submitted applications during the application period.
