Postdoctoral Researcher, Plant population genetics, Faculty of Science

The University of Oulu is a multidisciplinary, international research university, with about 3,600 employees who produce new knowledge based on high-standards research and provide research based education to build a more sustainable, smarter, and more humane world. The University of Oulu community has about 17,000 people in total. Our northern scientific community operates globally and creates conditions for the emergence of innovations.  

We are now looking for

a Postdoctoral Researcher

to join us in the Ecology and Genetics Research unit at the Faculty of Science, University of Oulu

At the University of Oulu Ecology and Genetics Research Unit we are generally interested in mechanisms and diversity in nature. Our research program is diverse, but we have a strong focus on northern and biodiversity aspects, and many of our groups are part of the Biodiverse Anthropocenes program. Read more about the research environment and groups in Ecology and Genetics.

About the job

The postdoctoral researcher will join the Research Council of Finland funded project “Genomics of high-latitude parallel adaptation”. The aim of the project is to decipher the genetic basis of adaptation to northern latitudes using a population genomics approach. To do so, we generate short-and long-read whole-genome sequencing data from multiple north European Arabidopsis lyrata populations and use state-of-the-art population genetics methods to understand adaptation in combination with population history investigation of the species.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will

• design and conduct computational population genetic research on the North European A. lyrata populations.
• process and analyze short- and long-read whole-genome sequencing data.
• participate in sampling and molecular laboratory work.
• Participate in teaching and thesis supervision in your field of expertise for a maximum of 5 % of your yearly working hours.

What do we offer?

• Possibility to flexibly design projects based on your interests and expertise.
• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic collaboration network on Arabidopsis population genetic research where you can share your expertise and develop your research ideas.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close ones in settling into Oulu.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers.
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

To succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you: 

• Doctoral degree in population genetics, plant biology, computational biology, genomics, molecular ecology or related fields. The degree must be obtained no more than 10 years ago
• Knowledge on population genetics, computational biology and bioinformatics
• Experience in whole-genome sequencing data processing and analysis
• Fluency in written and spoken English
• Ability to conduct independent scientific work  
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Innovativeness and eagerness to learn
• Scientific enthusiasm and personal drive
• Teaching and supervision skills

We also appreciate

• Experience in plant ecology and/or plant physiology
• Knowledge of machine learning methods
• Proficiency in Scandinavian languages

Salary

The position is fixed-term for 3 years starting as agreed during the first half of 2025 or 1.9.2025 at the latest.

The salary will be based on levels 5-6 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3600-4200 € per month (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied for the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 12.12.2024 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

• CV (max 4 pages), following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
• Cover letter (max 1 page) highlighting the applicant’s key merits and research interests in relation to this position. Personal motivation for applying should also be included.
• List of publications, following the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland
• Certificates/Diplomas
• Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders, and members of different language, cultural, or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Dr. Tiina M. Mattila, tiina.mattila@oulu.fi

1. Tiina Mattila,