Maija-Sofia Ulmanen
Doctoral Researcher
Ankkuri
Background
I have completed two master's degrees at the University of Tampere: a Master of Arts (MA) in philosophy with philosophy as my major, and a Master of Social Sciences (MSoc) with political science/government studies as my major. My doctoral research focuses on the field of public law.
Research Interests
The core of my research lies in the linguistic demarcations formed through social constructions that define the boundaries of normalcy and deviance in society. Within public law, my focus is on administrative law and the principles of good governance, as well as related challenges, such as questions concerning the limits of discretionary power and effective legal remedies. My research also critically examines the principles of the rule of law in relation to access to justice, legal protection, and the exercise of power, particularly from the perspective of vulnerable groups. I explore, among other issues, how diagnostics and state paternalistic practices influence individuals' self-determination and autonomy. These themes are approached through the lens of emancipatory and critical legal theory.
Teaching experience
- Welfare Law Course (HTK2306-3006), Fall 2024
- Legal Theory and Case Analysis (HTK2604-3003), Spring 2025