FAQs
DP-FOBI is a MSCA doctoral training programme at the University of Eastern Finland that recruits 15 doctoral candidates through a global open call. Each selected candidate receives a 48-month fully paid position.
The programme trains future experts and leaders in the forest-based bioeconomy through international, interdisciplinary, and intersectoral research. Its aim is to advance innovation and sustainable solutions to global challenges.
A person who has completed a master’s degree which gives eligibility for doctoral education in the chosen research topic. See details in the theme descriptions.
However, they
1) must not already hold a doctoral degree. Applicants who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but have not yet been formally awarded the doctoral degree are also ineligible.
2) must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Finland for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately preceding the call deadline (August 10).
The DP-FOBI doctoral programme is open to applicants of all nationalities. Finnish applicants are eligible to apply if they have not resided in Finland or carried out their main activities there for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding the call deadline.
The application period is from 11 June to 10 August 2026.
To apply, follow the guidelines given here. All application materials must be submitted in English via the UEF electronic recruitment system.
The evaluators will assess academic merits, research experience, motivation, and interview performance. See the evaluation criteria in more detail here.
The position will be filled for a fixed term of four years. Total working time is 1 612 hours per year. A probationary period of four months applies to all new staff members.
The salary follows the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions salary system and consists of:
- living allowance (EUR 3,200), forming the main part of the gross monthly salary
- mobility allowance (EUR 87 monthly) for mobility-related private expenses
- family allowance (EUR 300 monthly) for Doctoral researchers with a spouse and/or a dependent
- paid leave and an additional holiday bonus in summer
Researchers are also entitled to
- travel allowance (EUR 1,500 per year) is allocated for conference travel and an additional allowance (EUR 10,500 in total) for travel to secondments and short visits
- research costs (EUR 6,000 in total) is allocated for costs, such as lab consumables, data collection, publication, etc.
- special needs allowance and support are available, if needed
DP-FOBI doctoral candidates are employed by the University of Eastern Finland and benefit from a supportive, international research environment. Benefits include occupational health care, social security coverage, subsidised meals, university sports services, and occupational accident insurance.
Candidates receive dedicated office space, essential IT tools, access to e-publications and open access publishing support, as well as UEF’s research infrastructure, laboratories, and learning facilities. UEF also provides English-language administrative support for onboarding and day-to-day employment matters.
The final decision is expected in December 2026.
Yes. Appeals must be submitted with five working days of notification. The Appeals Committee, that consists of two external experts and two internal UEF experts, will address complaints within the following five working days
Contact us by email: [email protected]