Doctoral School’s New Seminar Series “The Future of Work for Doctoral Graduates” Begins in March
What does a successful career for a doctoral graduate look like in 2035? Is a permanent position still the dream – or is the future something entirely different? What skills are most important for doctors in a world shaped by artificial intelligence? How can doctoral researchers prepare for multidisciplinary or careers outside universities? Will transferable skills become as important as technical expertise? What is the role of doctors in shaping sustainable and socially responsible innovations?
These and other questions related to doctoral careers will be addressed in the University of Helsinki Doctoral School’s new seminar series “The Future of Work for Doctoral Graduates”, starting in March. The series offers fresh perspectives on doctoral career paths and the changing world of work – especially outside the university.
Doctoral School Director Minna Palander-Collin emphasises the importance of open discussion about doctoral career prospects and highlights new opportunities and skill requirements in a changing world. Understanding broader trends and hearing about the career paths of doctors from different fields builds confidence for the future and helps clarify personal goals. The series is also a great opportunity for anyone interested in the societal relevance of doctoral careers.
Spring Programme at Think Corner:
19 March: The series opens with futurist Elina Hiltunen, speaking on “The future of the world in the light of megatrends (...and some hints for your career after your PhD.)”.
21 April: Philosophers Frank Martela and Lauri Järvilehto take the stage. Järvilehto’s talk explores the role of AI in extending expert cognition (“The Augmented Doctor: Generative AI as an Extension of Expert Cognition”), and Martela discusses inner motivation in career development (“Inner motivation as a guiding force in doctoral and post-doctoral work career”).
The series culminates with the third event on 26 May, featuring Ronny Eriksson – details will be updated during the spring.
The seminar series is held at Think Corner and is open to everyone. After the presentations, the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions. The talks will be streamed live.
What is “The Future of Work for Doctoral Graduates”?
This is a seminar series organised by the University of Helsinki Doctoral School, focusing on the future of doctoral careers and employment opportunities. Events are held at Think Corner from 17:00 to 19:00, and all doctoral researchers at the University of Helsinki and anyone interested in the topic are welcome to attend!
More information and an updated programme will be available on the Doctoral School website during the spring.
Speakers of the Spring Seminar Series
Futurist Elina Hiltunen holds doctorates in military science and business, as well as an MSc in engineering. She is an entrepreneur, speaker, columnist, and author of 15 books. Forbes has listed her among the world's 50 leading female futurists.
Frank Martela is an internationally recognised expert and Finland’s leading authority on inner motivation, wellbeing, meaning, and the good life, with clear insights into how these can be promoted at workplaces and in society. Martela holds two doctorates, is a docent in the psychology of wellbeing, and works as an assistant professor at Aalto University’s Department of Industrial Engineering and Management.
Lauri Järvilehto, PhD, is a philosopher, nonfiction author, and musician. He founded the Philosophy Academy and has served as a working life professor at Aalto University and on the board of UNICEF Finland. He has written several bestsellers on thinking and learning and lectures internationally.
Ronny Eriksson is a serial entrepreneur, researcher, and speaker who helps organisations leverage creativity and entrepreneurship as strategic tools for cultural growth and change management. Eriksson is, among others, the founder of ODDfest and is conducting doctoral research at Hanken School of Economics.