Researchers in Mathematics

Position Summary

The brand-new Number Theory Research Group at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Helsinki is seeking 1–2 doctoral researchers to join a research project on analytic number theory.

The work is part of the research project “Higher rank symmetries in analytic number theory” funded by the Academy of Finland and the Emil Aaltonen Foundation, and led by Assistant Professor Jori Merikoski.

The position is for a fixed term of three years, with flexibility regarding the starting date. The selected candidate can start as soon as possible during Spring 2026 but no later than September 2026. A six-month trial period applies.

Job Description

The selected candidate will carry out research on the interface between automorphic forms, prime numbers, divisor functions, and L-functions—an active area within modern analytic number theory with many research directions.

The supervisor will assist the researcher in choosing appropriate research questions and acquiring required skills.

The position is fixed-term with the main purpose of preparing a doctoral dissertation related to the project in the Doctoral Programme in Science (SciDoc) at the University of Helsinki. The researcher will write scientific manuscripts for international peer-reviewed journals.

The position includes funding for conferences and research visits abroad.

• Homepage of the project leader: https://sites.google.com/view/jorimerikoski/home

• Number Theory Group at University of Turku (collaboration): https://users.utu.fi/ksmato/researchgroup/

Who We Are Looking For

The position requires expertise in analytic number theory or excellent capabilities to acquire it, with emphasis on:

• distribution of prime numbers and arithmetic functions

• theory of zeta- and L-functions

• theory of automorphic forms

Competence in related fields—representation theory, Lie groups, algebraic number theory—is considered an advantage.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a suitable field, preferably in analytic number theory, completed by the start date

• Ability to conduct independent research

• Fluent English language skills

Doctoral Study Right

The appointee must apply for the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki:

• either before starting, or

• within the six-month trial period

Information:

• https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-education/the-application-process-in-a-nutshell

• https://www.helsinki.fi/en/research/doctoral-school

Working Environment and Benefits

The University of Helsinki offers a first-class research and teaching environment, a vibrant international community, and an inclusive and equitable working culture.

Benefits include:

• Responsible and interesting tasks

• Opportunities for professional development

• Contribution to the growth of a new research group

• Flexible working hours

• 6 weeks of paid annual leave

• Occupational health care and insurance

• Sports facilities

• Support for international employees transitioning to Finland

Finland offers high-quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits, excellent healthcare, clean natural environments, affordable housing, and excellent transport connections.

Salary

The salary is based on level 2 of the salary system for teaching and research staff at Finnish universities.

The starting salary is typically 2600–2700 EUR/month, including the personal performance component.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki recruitment system via the link “Apply for the position”.

Employees of the University of Helsinki should apply via the employee login.

Application Documents

Applicants must include:

• Curriculum vitae (max. 2 pages), including list of publications if applicable

• Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)

• Transcript of records

• Degree diploma or statement of expected date of completion

• Contact information for two referees (letters requested separately)

Deadline: 14 January 2026 (23:59 UTC+2)

Further Information

On the position:
Assistant Professor Jori Merikoski
jori.merikoski(at)helsinki.fi

On the recruitment system:
recruitment(at)helsinki.fi

About the University of Helsinki

Founded in 1640, the University of Helsinki is one of the world’s leading universities for multidisciplinary research, with a community of about 40,000 students and staff. It operates on four campuses in Helsinki and 15 other locations.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics is the largest mathematics department in Finland. It hosts several ERC grants and two Centres of Excellence of the Research Council of Finland.