Doctoral Researcher, How plant-microbial interactions shape species diversity
A Doctoral Researcher position is available at the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Finland, in the group of Associate Professor Nerea Abrego as part of the Predictive Community Ecology Group. The Doctoral Researcher will work in a Research Council of Finland-funded project where the overarching aim is to understand how microbial-driven functions change and shape plant phenotypes and diversity along abiotic environmental gradients. Starting date is May 2026 or as mutually agreed for a fixed-term of three years.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The architectures and dynamics of ecological interaction networks are crucial determinants of the assembly of ecological communities. The environmental context can reshape ecological communities by modifying the presence and outcomes of biotic interactions, ultimately influencing species traits, abundance and distributions. This PhD project will use the highly diverse and dynamic plant-microbial networks in the arctic environment as study system to investigate of why and how complex plant-microbial biotic interaction networks change along abiotic gradients, and what the ultimate consequences of such changes are on microbial and plant community assembly. For reaching the objectives, the PhD will combine field and greenhouse experiments, perform DNA and RNA molecular analyses, and apply joint species distribution models to analyze the data. By providing a mechanistic understanding of species interactions in plant-microbial networks, this project will enable improved predictions on how biodiversity will respond to the ongoing global change.
DUTIES
The doctoral researcher position will involve conducting fieldwork in Finnish Lapland, conducting greenhouse experiments, contributing to laboratory sample preparation, and contributing to bioinformatic and statistical analyses.
Who we are looking for
- We are seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and productive individual who is willing to gain hands-on experience in both field and greenhouse experiments, is highly motivated to develop data analysis skills, and is willing to contribute intellectually to the project’s development.
- Suitable candidates should hold a Master’s degree by the start of the position in ecology and evolution, microbial ecology, plant ecology, or a closely related field within the broader umbrella of community ecology, and demonstrate an interest in plant–microbial research and data analysis.
- Experience in fieldwork and plant or microbial systems will be considered beneficial.
The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks to these. The duties, qualification requirements, and the language skills of Doctoral Researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A good command of English is required.
Doctoral Researcher needs to be also enrolled in the doctoral programme which can be applied from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science through a separate application procedure after selection for the position.
Benefits
- Funding for 3 years in the Doctoral Programme in Biological and Environmental Science of the Doctoral School of the Faculty of Mathematics and Science.
- Supervision in all aspects of the work (from field to data analysis skills), possibility to join workshops to improve specific skills in e.g., bioinformatics, data analysis.
- International, enthusiastic working environment (working language is English) in a friendly research group with a large collaborator network.
- Resources for travel to conferences or workshops abroad.
The Doctoral Researcher will be supervised by Dr. Nerea Abrego, together with a group of co‑supervisors whose expertise will complement the supervisory team.
The Predictive Community Ecology Group led by Nerea Abrego and Otso Ovaskainen is an international and multidisciplinary group currently consisting of ca. 25 senior researchers, postdocs and PhD researchers focusing on the interface between empirical, statistical and mathematical community ecology. We are broadly interested in community ecology, in particular in gaining a predictive understanding of species-rich communities through strengthening the link between empirical data and general theory in community ecology. To achieve this, we develop and apply novel methods to collect, analyze, and integrate complex ecological community data. A central component of our work is the development and application of advanced statistical models, such as joint species distribution models. Our research spans multiple ecosystems and taxa, with a strong focus on species‑rich systems, such as fungi, bacteria, and insects.
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 University's Handbook for international staff and visitors.
The initial annual salary will be approximately 31400 EUR (gross income, including a holiday bonus). With progress of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Universities. The employment starts with a trial period of six months.
How to apply?
The application documents that should be included in PDF format:
- A two-page long Curriculum vitae, 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
- Max 2-page motivation letter including a statement of research interests and reasons for applying
- Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the MSc)
- A numbered list of publications, if any
Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by February 28, 2026. Applications sent via email are not considered.
For further details, please contact Associate Professor Nerea Abrego, nerea.n.abrego-antia@jyu.fi.
We offer good working conditions for researchers and promote the principles of HR Excellence in Research, HRS4R. The Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R) is based on the values of the European Charter for Researchers & The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers (Charter & Code). JYU is committed to fairness, consistency and transparency in selection decisions, and undertakes the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. JYU has signed the DORA Declaration. By signing the agreement, JYU is committed to complying with the CoARA principles.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. All appointment decisions are based on careful consideration within the faculty. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants, regardless of background, to apply for this position.
Department of Biological and Environmental Science
The research in the Department of Biological and Environmental Science focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is an integral part of the University of Jyväskylä's Ylistönrinne Mathematics and Science Research Complex, which includes buildings of chemistry, physics and nanoscience. Ambiotica houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, you have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout. After submitting you can return to edit your application via the link you receive by email. The application can be edited until the application deadline.
