The Faculty of Science at the University of Turku, Department of Biology, invites applications for contract-based, fixed term doctoral researcher / project researcher position. The position is fully funded for three years, with the possibility of applying for additional funding if needed. Support in preparing funding applications will be provided. The employment period is 1.3.2026 – 28.2.2029, with a flexible starting date (no later than 1.5.2026).

The Research Council of Finland-funded project explores the movement ecology of the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla). Using state-of-the-art biologging technology, the project investigates how young eagles develop their habitat preferences and how these early-life experiences shape large-scale movement patterns later in life. The researcher will be under the supervision of Research Council fellow Dr. Carina Nebel and will join the Animal Ecology lab at UTU, led by Prof. Toni Laaksonen. We are an enthusiastic team committed to high-quality research, open collaboration, and fostering the growth of early-career scientists.

Job description

The main task of the doctoral researcher/ project researcher is to conduct research and other research-related tasks supporting researcher career. The work will include the planning and conducting of field and data analyses on eagle movement and habitat selection, collaborating with national and international partners, and participating in research dissemination and outreach activities. The position also includes plans for international mobility and teaching-related tasks at UTU (max. 5% of working time). Depending on the skills and interest of the researcher, there may also be communication tasks.

Who we are looking for

Requirements
MSc in animal ecology and behaviour, wildlife biology or related field. Applicants must have completed their MSc degree before the application deadline.

We expect the doctoral researcher / project researcher to be motivated and initiative, and to have good communication skills. Fluent oral and written communication skills in English are required in the position. We appreciate skills in wildlife ecology and animal behaviour, fieldwork ,statistical methods ((R and/or GIS software), and in handling large datasets, in particular GPS data.

In addition, when acquiring his or her degree or otherwise, a doctoral researcher is required to have demonstrated the ability and motivation to undertake postgraduate studies and the capacity to complete a doctoral degree in accordance with the research plan.

To be eligible for the position of doctoral researcher, you must have a study right for doctoral studies from the University of Turku. If the successful candidate does not hold a study right from the University of Turku before the application deadline, the position will initially be filled as a project researcher and the successful candidate will be expected to apply for the right to study in the next possible postgraduate search. Read more about the University of Turku's doctoral programmes and how to apply for study rights Join us for your doctoral studies at the University of Turku! | University of Turku

The qualification requirements for doctoral researchers are set in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure

We value collegiality and promote equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage all qualified applicants with different backgrounds to apply for our open positions.