The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is currently seeking to recruit candidates to the position of a Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecology.

We are looking for a full-time post-doctoral researcher to join the Academy of Finland research project "Pathways of microbial carbon fixation under changing Arctic winters". The position starts on 1st September 2024 or as agreed, for a fixed term of one year.

Climate change is predicted to affect Arctic areas most severely. In the research group of Minna-Maarit Kytöviita we have been studying Arctic soil for over 20 years. Currently, we investigate how winter regulates microbes that are able to fix atmospheric carbon into Arctic soil. The post doc researcher will focus on RNA-based metatranscriptome sequencing to compare the active microbial C fixers in soil biocrust already collected at key time points within the Arctic year. 

You are the person we are looking for if you have

1. PhD degree in microbial ecology or a closely-related subject;
2. Documented knowledge in molecular community analysis, bioinformatics and biostatistics, and soil and microbial ecology;
3. Solid laboratory skills in molecular biology and computational skills to analyse next generation sequencing data in an ecological context;
4. A good publication record in international well-recognized journals.

Experience or knowledge on any of the following is considered an advantage: metagenomics or metatranscriptomics of environmental microbes, biological soil crusts, genomic analysis of microbial metabolic pathways, especially related to carbon cycling. We are looking for a highly motivated, flexible, open-minded, and team-oriented candidate, who has shown good abilities for independent scientific work. 

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Postdoctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position. A trial period of six months will be used at the beginning of the employment.

We offer

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with an ample opportunity to be drawn into international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community, where everybody’s welfare is essential. You will work in an inspiring and lively campus area and an environment that supports a healthy and active lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living with healthcare, free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, and good family benefits. The city of Jyväskylä is located in central Finland amidst Finnish lakes and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. It is a major educational center, whose large student population is responsible for a vibrant cultural scene. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the the Handbook for international staff and visitors.

The initial annual salary will be approximately 44,000 - 51,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.

How to apply

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV), composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
2. Cover letter including a statement of research interests.
3. A numbered list of publications
4. Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the PhD)
5. Research plan is not mandatory, please submit a blank file instead.

For further details, please contact: Senior Lecturer Minna-Maarit Kytöviita, minna-maarit.kytoviita@jyu.fi