Doctoral Researcher in Biomechanics
Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences is seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher to join a Muscle-Tendon Imaging and Biomechanics in Cerebral Palsy -related project. The position is a fixed-term for two years starting 17th November 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Mapping and modeling skeletal muscle properties in children and young adults with cerebral palsy -project is an interdisciplinary project funded by the Academy of Finland. The project aims to explore muscle and tendon properties in children with cerebral palsy using advanced medical imaging techniques and to model corresponding muscle forces. The research will integrate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound imaging, electromyography (EMG), and motion tracking to characterize neuromechanical adaptations and develop improved biomechanical models of muscle-tendon function.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for motivated PhD candidates to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment that bridges engineering and clinical sciences, with opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and clinical partners in Finland and abroad.
The responsibilities include:
- Acquiring and analyzing MRI and 3D ultrasound data of skeletal muscles
- Conducting biomechanical experiments involving motion tracking and electromyography
- Contributing to scientific publications and conference presentations
- Collaborating closely with the PI and other team members and participate in international research exchanges where appropriate
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).
Requirements for this position:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Engineering, Biomechanics, Medical Physics, Neuroscience, or a related field
- Good communication skills in English (spoken and written)
- Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences.
Desirable skills:
- Experience with MRI and ultrasound data acquisition and analysis for skeletal muscles
- Familiarity with EMG and motion capture systems
- Background knowledge in musculoskeletal modeling
- Proficiency in coding (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or similar) and data processing
A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
Benefits
At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
You will have an access to state-of-the-art imaging and motion analysis facilities and opportunities for international collaboration and training. We will offer you funding for two years, with the possibility of continuation through additional competitive funding opportunities, with support from the PI.
Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
The salary for a Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2500 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.
How to apply?
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
- A 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.
- A short and free-form motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), including your research interests, career goals and previous experience and merits in relation to the qualifications for this position.
- Degree certificate (highest degree)
- Letter of support or recommendation, e.g., from a previous supervisor (add this to "Other attachment")
Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by 26th October 2025. Applications sent via email are not considered.
For further information, please contact Academy Research Fellow Francesco Cenni: francesco.l.cenni@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.
Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences
At the University of Jyväskylä, everyone can find their place in the human-centred environment of 2,600 experts and 14,700 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for us all. It is essential that each member of the community thrives and has opportunities to develop and grow. We cherish openness of thinking as well as the balance between research and education. Our naturally beautiful campus is located at the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.
Education and research in sport sciences in Finland are concentrated at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences of the University of Jyväskylä. There are two main lines of study at the Faculty: Sport Sciences and Health Sciences. Links between physical activity and health as well as promotion of exercise and health are viewed from a multidisciplinary perspective with the improvement of health, functional ability, and wellbeing across the human lifespan as the key aim.
Information for the applicant
The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, 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.
You have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout.
