Job Description
We are now offering a fully funded PhD position in International Relations, to conduct research on the U-KNOW research project which investigates the use of open source investigation/intelligence in relation to the Ukraine and Palestine conflicts. We are looking for a creative and digitally savvy prospective doctoral researcher, with motivation and skills to conduct conflict-related research online and through fieldwork. This fixed-term position is full time for 3 years (36 months), starting from 1 September 2026 (or upon agreement).
The doctoral researcher will pursue a doctoral degree under the supervision of PI Dr. Rune Saugmann as part of the project Understanding International Knowledge Practice and Open Source Images (U-KNOW), funded by the Finnish Research Council. The project researches the role of open source investigation practices in two conflicts – the post-2014 Russian invasions of Ukraine, and the conflict in Palestine – to (i) explore the emergence of visual open-source ways of making knowledge about the conflict, (ii) develop novel methodological ways of studying open-source knowledge-making in relation to conflict, and (iii) develop conceptual tools for thinking about how conflict knowledge-making relate to conflict logics like alliance and cooperation patterns, state identities, or geopolitical interests.
The doctoral student is expected to choose and develop their topic independently within the frame of the U-KNOW project, but should indicate in their preliminary research plan which of the conflicts and actors they plan to focus on, and how they plan to approach three main aspects of the project listed above (i – iii). The doctoral researcher is encouraged to work with or alongside open-source actors, contributing to understanding how these work in practice. The doctoral position will include some project tasks in the U-KNOW project, while the main aim is to collect data and work on the dissertation. These include representing U-KNOW nationally and internationally, and contributing to realize its research and societal objectives through public engagement activities, including media appearances, maintaining the website, writing op-eds, and creating infographics and podcasts. The U-KNOW project provides financing to help undertake these efforts. In addition to dissertation work, working time will be devoted to other activities and teaching (no more than 5% of annual working time).
The U-KNOW project is led by Dr Rune Saugmann and is implemented by a research team in which the PhD student will work closely with a postdoctoral researcher, the PI, and shorter term senior researchers with expertise in digital methods and conflict. The PhD student will be supervised by the project leader, Dr. Rune Saugmann, and a co-supervisor. The position offers a chance to receive PhD training in close collaboration with members of the U-KNOW research team, the wider Visual Security hub and the TASER research seminar community. The doctoral researcher will be located within the International Relations discipline and affiliated with the Visual Studies Lab. This offers great opportunities for young researchers to develop their careers in an international and inspirational environment.
The terms of the dissertation work are defined in the doctoral researcher’s personal study and supervision plan, including a detailed annual work schedule.
The position provides an excellent opportunity for completing a full PhD as part of a motivated, international and interdisciplinary research team working on themes closely related to critical studies of security, digital conflict, war and peace. Project activities are handled mostly as teamwork, and a positive attitude and a willingness to collaboratively learn about and with new technologies are essential.
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