The Helsinki Institute for Information Technology (HIIT) is recruiting Postdoctoral Fellows across major areas of computer science. The positions are hosted by Aalto University or the University of Helsinki, are fully funded, and can run for up to three years. Applications closed on 4 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC+03:00.
HIIT Postdoctoral Fellow Positions in Computer Science
HIIT is a strategic partnership between Aalto University and the University of Helsinki. The fellowship is designed for early-career researchers moving toward greater research independence while working with one or more HIIT Faculty supervisors.
| Institution | Helsinki Institute for Information Technology (HIIT) |
|---|---|
| Host universities | Aalto University or University of Helsinki |
| Position | Postdoctoral Fellow in Computer Science |
| Duration | Up to 3 years |
| Start date | Flexible and negotiated individually |
| Location | Helsinki metropolitan area, Finland |
| Application deadline | 4 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC+03:00 |
Research Areas
The 2026 call welcomed applications across all areas of computer science, including:
- Algorithms and theory;
- Artificial intelligence;
- Computational science;
- Human-centric computing; and
- Software systems.
Applicants are expected to explain their intended research direction and how it connects with potential HIIT supervisors or research groups.
Eligibility
- You should hold, or expect to receive shortly, a PhD in computer science, statistics, mathematics or a related field.
- If the doctorate is not yet complete, it must be finished before the position starts.
- Previous information-technology research experience is expected.
- A strong publication record, particularly in respected research venues, strengthens the application.
- You must be able to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Excellent written and spoken English is required.
Funding and Appointment
| Salary | Fully funded; salary follows the applicable host-university pay scale. |
|---|---|
| Travel support | Included as part of the fellowship funding. |
| Publication support | Publication-related costs are included in the funding framework. |
| Appointment length | Up to three years. |
| Employing university | Determined by the selected supervising professor and host research environment. |
Required Application Documents
HIIT requires the application materials to be submitted in English as PDF files.
| Cover letter | 1–2 pages describing the intended research area, contribution to the field and motivation for working with potential supervisor(s). |
|---|---|
| Preliminary research plan | 3–5 pages covering background, objectives, methods, possible results, collaboration and other key information. |
| CV | Include a publication list; do not attach full copies of publications. |
| Doctoral records | Transcript plus degree certificate, or a clear completion plan if the PhD is still pending. |
| Referees | Contact details for 2–3 senior academic referees. |
| File limits | Up to five PDF files, maximum 5 MB each, through the Workday eRecruitment system. |
2026 Application Process (Closed)
- Read the official HIIT/Aalto vacancy.
- Review HIIT Faculty and identify potential supervisors whose work aligns with your research direction.
- Prepare the required cover letter, research plan, CV, doctoral documents and referee details.
- Submit the complete application through Aalto University’s Workday eRecruitment system.
- Complete submission before 4 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC+03:00.
Selection Timeline
HIIT states that shortlisted candidates will be contacted in late October 2026 and asked to give a public research talk.
| Shortlist contact | Late October 2026 |
|---|---|
| Public research talks | Early November 2026, via Zoom |
| Final notification | By late November 2026 |
The public talk stage means applicants should be prepared to explain both their previous contributions and their proposed postdoctoral research direction clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are HIIT Postdoctoral Fellow positions still open?
No. The 2026 application deadline was 4 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC+03:00. Shortlisted candidates are expected to be contacted in late October.
How long can the fellowship last?
The positions can run for up to three years with flexible starting dates.
Are the positions fully funded?
Yes. HIIT states that the positions include salary plus travel and publication costs, with salary following the host-university pay scale.
Can I apply before finishing my PhD?
Yes, if you expect to complete the doctorate before starting the position. In that case, submit a clear completion plan instead of the final degree certificate.
Which universities host the positions?
The employing institution is either Aalto University or the University of Helsinki, depending on the supervising professor.
Official HIIT / Aalto Sources
| Current status | Applications closed |
|---|---|
| Deadline | 4 October 2026 at 23:59 UTC+03:00 |
| Duration | Up to three years |
| Funding | Salary plus travel/publication costs |
| Last verified | 10 October 2026 |
