The Department of Biological and Environmental Science at the University of Jyväskylä is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Environmental Biology. This two-year fixed-term position is situated in the research group led by Professor Katja Räsänen and focuses on eco-evolutionary dynamics under environmental change.
Position Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Area | Evolutionary Environmental Biology, Evolutionary Ecology, Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics |
| Host Institution | University of Jyväskylä (Department of Biological and Environmental Science) |
| Location | Jyväskylä, Finland |
| Contract Duration | 2 years (Starting December 1, 2026, or as negotiated; includes a 6-month trial period) |
| Salary | €3,600 – €4,800 per month (gross income, depending on experience and qualification) |
| Application Deadline | November 2, 2026 |
Job Description
Interactions between distinct evolutionary forces, including natural and sexual selection, drive organismal responses to environmental fluctuations and affect broader ecosystem dynamics. The research group aims to decipher the dynamic interplay between ecological and evolutionary variation amid rapid environmental changes.
Key responsibilities and expectations for the role include:
- Independent & Collaborative Research: Investigating organismal, population, and/or ecosystem-level eco-evolutionary processes. One available empirical study system is the freshwater isopod (Asellus aquaticus), a versatile model organism suited for diverse biological and environmental investigations.
- Mentoring & Teaching: Contributing to student supervision and teaching in experimental ecology, evolutionary biology, and/or applied evolutionary ecology.
- Funding Acquisition: While basic research funding is provided, the candidate is expected to actively prepare and submit applications for complementary research funding.
Eligibility and Qualifications
To qualify for the position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A doctoral degree (PhD) in evolutionary biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field completed before the start date.
- A robust conceptual foundation in evolutionary biology combined with a demonstrable interest in ecology.
- Hands-on experience in experimental research alongside solid quantitative and statistical analysis skills.
- High level of independence, excellent team-working abilities, and an eagerness to actively participate in an international research environment.
- Prior teaching experience and a demonstrated track record of securing external research funding are considered strong merits.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
What the University of Jyväskylä Offers
- Competitive monthly compensation (€3,600–€4,800 gross) based on task demand levels 5–6 of the Finnish University Salary System, plus annual holiday bonuses.
- Relocation support for international candidates moving to Finland.
- A high standard of living, family-friendly policies, subsidized healthcare, and four to six weeks of annual paid leave in Finland.
- Access to advanced molecular, experimental, and digital research infrastructure under the HR Excellence in Research (HRS4R) framework.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the university recruitment portal. Before applying, applicants must ensure their ORCID profile is updated and set to public visibility (“Everyone”).
Please prepare and upload the following documents in English (PDF format):
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Formatted following good scientific practice and the template provided by the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity (TENK).
- Cover / Motivation Letter: Maximum 2 pages outlining your research interests, career aims, and suitability relative to the post.
- List of Publications: Numbered list adhering to the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland.
- Degree Certificate: Copy of your highest academic degree diploma (PhD).
Application Deadline & Contact Information
Last Date for Application: November 2, 2026
For informal inquiries regarding the research topic or group, please contact:
Professor Katja Räsänen
Email: katja.j.rasanen@jyu.fi
Online Application Link
To view the official call and submit your electronic application, visit:
Apply Online for Postdoctoral Researcher Position
