Jenna Kanerva

The TurkuNLP research group at the University of Turku invites applications for a fixed-term Postdoctoral Researcher position in Natural Language Processing (NLP). The appointment starts in September 2026 at the earliest, or by agreement, and lasts for 20 months. The project focuses on multilingual text embeddings, especially controllable embeddings and methods for textual similarity. The research examines how embedding models encode information such as factual content, topic, style, language, domain, and register, and how these factors affect similarity judgments. The longer-term aim is to develop embedding methods that support aspect-specific or conditional notions of textual similarity. Possible research directions include task-specific fine-tuning of embedding models, instruction-following retrieval and representation models, analysis of embedding space properties, conditional or aspect-specific textual similarity, information privacy in embedding models, and applications of embeddings for detecting distributional patterns in web-scale datasets. The exact research questions and methods will be shaped by the selected candidate’s expertise and interests. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment of nearly 40 researchers at TurkuNLP, spanning methodological NLP, digital language studies, and humanities. The position also includes participating in the supervision of junior researchers and may involve a limited amount of teaching, such as around 5% of working time. Applicants should have a doctoral degree in NLP, machine learning, information retrieval, computational linguistics, or a related field, or be very close to completing a PhD in an exceptional case. Strong programming and modern ML skills are expected, including Python, PyTorch, and Hugging Face. Prior experience with text embeddings is important. The University of Turku emphasizes collegiality, equality, diversity, and inclusivity, and offers flexible working hours, well-being services, and support for international hires. The salary for a postdoctoral researcher is typically around 3700–4600 euros per month, depending on experience and skills. In exceptional cases where the title starts as Project Researcher, the salary is approximately 3100–3300 euros per month. Applications must be submitted in English through the university’s recruitment system by 17 August 2026 at 16:00 (Europe/Helsinki). Required documents include a motivation letter, academic CV with two referees, publication list, and any other relevant materials.