Vacancies

PROGRAMME DIRECTOR

for the period 1.1.2026–31.12.2030

Finland and Northern European Security research programme

The programme produces strategic research on Finnish foreign and security policy and Finland’s changing security environment. The programme’s key research focus is Finnish comprehensive security and resilience policy, and more broadly Finland’s role in international relations. Furthermore, the programme aims to conduct research on the various aspects related to security and the geostrategy in Northern Europe: the Nordic countries, the Baltic Sea region, and the Arctic. 

The main task of the Programme Director (PD) is to successfully manage the research programme. The PD participates in the planning of research and other work necessary for the Institute, under the guidance of the FIIA leadership. In addition, a PD also has personal research duties. 

Successful performance of these duties will require broad expertise and substantial international experience, preferably in research-related functions. An excellent disposition for teamwork, and experience of influencing public policy and of the work in think tank organizations are seen as an advantage. Experience of practical leadership tasks, showing the applicant’s ability to manage a research community and to act as a supervisor for researchers, is particularly valued.

For the successful performance of these tasks, a doctoral degree and fluency in English are required.

Applications in English are addressed to the Director of the Institute. Applications can be submitted to valtiolle.fi or paper applications by mail to Kirjaamo, Finnish Institute of the International Affairs, PO Box 425, 00101 Helsinki, Finland. The final deadline for the applications is 16^th May, 2025, 4.15 p.m. Finnish time. Applications will not be returned.

Applications should include a CV (max. 5 pages) specifying the principal scientific qualifications and achievements and other evidence of competence and distinctions. We also request a provisional research and publication plan regarding the applicant’s own research projects for the programme period.

The person selected for the position will need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More information on the security clearance and the applicant’s rights at https://supo.fi/en/security-clearances

The salary for a programme director is 6931 euro. 

Further details of the research work and other FIIA activities are available on our website at www.fiia.fi. More information on the duties of the Programme Director, please contact director Hiski Haukkala on Mon April 28, 12-13, tel. +358 9 432 7701 orhiski.haukkala(at)fiia.fi.