The Finnish Institute in the Middle East (FIME) is recruiting a doctoral or postdoctoral researcher for a fixed term of 1.1.2026–31.12.2027. The position is located at the Institute in Beirut, Lebanon.
The Finnish Institute in the Middle East is an academic institute that focuses on the study of Middle East in contemporary and classical periods within a variety of disciplines in humanities, social sciences, law, theology and education. The Institute supports Finnish research on the Middle East and offers teaching in cooperation with universities. The institute also brings research-based perspectives to public discussions on the Middle East. The Finnish Institute in the Middle East operates in the whole region with an office in Beirut, Lebanon. Working in FIME offers an excellent vantage point for research on the Middle East in Finland.
The position is intended primarily for a Finnish or Finland-based postdoctoral researcher, but also more senior researchers and doctoral researchers can apply. The tasks are varied and demanding, and as such, to succeed in this role, the candidate must have previous experience, that includes but is not limited to:
- Conducting research in/on the Middle East as well as academic experience from a multicultural context.
- Academic publishing.
- Organizing international events.
- External communications such as blogs, podcasts, and social media.
Excellent English and decent Finnish skills are mandatory. Arabic skills or knowledge of another major language of the MENA region are also appreciated. Researchers are expected to conduct independent research. Success in the role requires initiative, unprejudiced attitude, flexibility, and patience.
Work tasks, salary, housing benefits, duration of the term
50% of working time will be devoted to one’s own research. The other 50 % will include administrative duties, teaching, external communications, organizing courses and events as well as other tasks assigned by the director of the institute.
Salary of a postdoc or more senior researcher is 3 266 euros per month (gross). Salary of an advanced doctoral researcher is 3010 euros per month (gross). In addition, the costs of living in Beirut are compensated up to 500 euros per month (taxable housing benefit).
The position is fixed term 1.1.2026–31.12.2027.
Application
Job applications with attached letter of motivation, curriculum vitae (max. 4 pages), list of publications and research plan (max. 5 pages) are to be submitted via online form by 17th August 2025 at 23.59 Finnish time. We also ask you to provide contact details for two referees. Doctoral researchers must include dissertation supervisor’s letter indicating academic progress.
Interviews will be arranged via Zoom. The Foundation’s Board of Governors will complete the selection in September.
For any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Director of the Institute Dr Susanne Dahlgren (name.surname@fime.fi).
More information is available on The Finnish Institute in the Middle East and the Foundation for the Finnish Institute in the Middle East.