Working at the University of Oulu

Scientific excellence

We combine multidisciplinarity, cutting edge research and teaching, and a genuine spirit of collaboration to deliver outstanding scientific and educational output.

Autonomy and empowerment

We encourage you to independently use your skills, grow and develop, and do work that makes a difference.

"In previous institutions I have been at, the academic culture is rather conservative in terms of what research is encouraged and funded, even if people talk a lot about being bold and innovative. But in Finland, if you show curiosity and have promise, someone will take notice and take a risk with you." – Academy Research Fellow Roger Norum

Diversity and equality

As an employer, we value and foster diversity by pro-actively promoting gender equality and non-discrimination.

Genuine work-life balance

We offer a flexible and family-friendly organizational culture that safeguards the well-being of all, and gives you the freedom to balance your working and private life.

“I couldn't have imagined how much peace of mind you can have when you live here.” – Doctoral Researcher Katherine Mimnaugh

The university’s ethical principles form the basis of our culture and communicate our way of doing things. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome and at ease when studying and working at the University of Oulu. The ethical principles guide the university community towards responsible, respectful, and sustainable activities.

Find out what it’s like to work as a researcher at the University of Oulu and the journey some of our researchers took to arrive here.

We put our hearts into developing our HR practices and are working towards building a skillful, adaptable, diverse and international community. For these efforts, we also have some labels to prove it.

HR Excellence in Research quality label

The University of Oulu has had the HR Excellence in Research quality label since 2014. The label is issued by the European Commission and is a recognition of developing the career path and working conditions of researchers within the EC’s Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R).

Mental Health Friendly Workplace® badge

Additionally, the University of Oulu has been awarded the Mental Health Friendly Workplace® badge in 2023. The label demonstrates our commitment to developing and strengthening the mental health of our employees in the workplace.