Doctoral Researcher (MSCA), Exploiting Migration to Influence and Destabilise Societies
Fully funded 3-year doctoral position investigating how state actors exploit migration narratives to destabilize European societies.
Best for:Best for political science or media studies graduates with strong qualitative and discourse analysis skills interested in European security and external interference.
Overview
The University of Helsinki invites applications for a fully funded doctoral researcher position as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network INFLUENCE. The project investigates how Russia strategically exploits societal divisions and migration narratives to fuel polarization and undermine democratic institutions in Europe. The successful candidate will conduct interdisciplinary research combining discourse analysis, media monitoring, and case studies under joint international supervision. Responsibilities include completing advanced methodological training, participating in mandatory international research secondments, and engaging with policy stakeholders.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent doctoral research on the exploitation of migration narratives for societal destabilization in Europe
- Perform rigorous discourse analysis and media monitoring of traditional and social media platforms
- Execute case studies examining significant migration-related events and domestic policy impacts
- Collaborate with international partner institutions and participate in mandatory intersectoral secondments for at least six months
- Prepare joint publications, research reports, and policy briefs targeting academic and stakeholder audiences
- Complete advanced doctoral-level coursework and transferable skills training programmes
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and spoken proficiency
Instruction: English
- Strong background in political science, international relations, area studies, sociology, or media studies
- Demonstrated proficiency in qualitative research methods, discourse analysis, or media monitoring
- Ability to work collaboratively within an international and interdisciplinary research network
- Willingness to travel for conferences, training events, and extended research secondments abroad
- Applicants can be of any nationality
- Must comply with the MSCA mobility rule: must not have resided or carried out main activity in Finland for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before recruitment
- Must not have been awarded a doctoral degree
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-15 (Europe/Helsinki)
Prepare all required application documents as PDF files including a cover letter, CV, research proposal, and transcripts. Submit your application through the University of Helsinki online recruitment portal before the stated deadline.
- Cover letter
- Prospective research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
Contact
Ira Jänis-Isokangas· Contact Person
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