Postdoctoral researcher in sustainability of cooperatives

Tiivistelmä työpaikkailmoituksesta: The University of Helsinki Ruralia Institute is hiring a postdoctoral researcher (Oct 2026–Dec 2029) to work on the SUSTRACOOP project studying the sustainability role of large cooperatives in food, forestry and retail. Key duties include conducting qualitative comparative analysis and historical case studies, co-authoring literature reviews and a journal special issue, communicating results, and co-supervising students. Applicants must hold a relevant PhD by the start of employment and demonstrate expertise in qualitative methods (preferably QCA), a strong publication record, English proficiency, and ability to work independently and collaboratively. The position’s starting salary is c. €3,600–4,200 per month (level 5 with a performance component), requires residence in Finland, includes a six-month trial period, and offers hybrid work options. Tämä tiivistelmä on luotu tekoälyn avulla. Ruralia Institute at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position for a contract starting at the earliest October 2026 and ending in December 2029. The appointed person will be joining the Sustainability and Community Enterprises 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. Cooperatives are a key part of global economy employing some 10% of the world´s working population and they have been identified as focal vehicles of sustainability transitions by researchers and societal stakeholders alike. However, we have limited understanding of cooperative sustainability impact because transition studies have focused on small organizations on emerging sectors and management studies have all but neglected the organizational form. SUSTRACOOP conceptualizes the role of cooperatives in promoting or inhibiting sustainability transitions. The project focuses on large co-operatives in food, forestry, and retail sectors. Responsibilities and qualifications We are looking for an engaged postdoctoral researcher, who is an expert in qualitative methods and that has an interest in cooperatives. The work will involve: Conducting qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to examine factors leading to positive/negative cooperative sustainability impact Conducting historical analysis on the sustainability orientation of selected case cooperatives Co-conducting a literature review on cooperative sustainability Co-editing a journal special issue on the sustainability of cooperatives Co-constructing and promoting a list of lighthouse cooperatives, which are particularly exemplary with regards to sustainability. Communicating the results in scientific publications and conference presentations Co-supervising PhD and MSc students working on the project Contributing to new research ideas and (co)-applying for grants Depending on interests and expertise, some teaching on cooperative studies is possible. The candidate we seek Has a relevant PhD degree (e.g., business administration, management, sociology, or innovation studies). This requirement must be met by beginning of the employment. Has demonstrated expertise in qualitative methods, preferably in qualitative comparative analysis Has a solid track record and demonstration of scientific drive Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a diverse team environment Has good communication skills and proficiency in verbal and written English Also, Finnish, Dutch, and German language skills and previous engagement with cooperative and/or sustainability research topics are considered as merits in the application. We provide Opportunities for professional development in an enthusiastic and supportive team that has strong track record in the research of community enterprises such as cooperatives Possibility to also pursue own research interests, preferably concerning community enterprises because not all the financing comes from the project. Encouragement to develop own projects with support to transition to an independent career National and international networking as part of a high-profile research project About us The University of Helsinki ranks among the world’s top multidisciplinary research universities. The university has 11 faculties, as well as separate departments, some of which are shared with other universities. There are 35,000 students at the university. The Ruralia Institute ( www.helsinki.fi/ruralia ) is an institute within the University of Helsinki’s Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry that provides high-quality research insights and innovation partnerships for rural development. At the heart of its multidisciplinary work are the development of local communities, a sustainable food chain, and a renewing bioeconomy. The institute engages in extensive international, national, and regional collaboration with a team of approximat