Doctoral Researcher, Soil Structural Dynamics and the Effects of Soil Amendments on Soil Structure
We are seeking a doctoral researcher for a joint project between the University of Jyväskylä and the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), focusing on soil structural dynamics and the effects of soil amendments on soil structure using X-ray tomography and image analysis. The position starts on November 1, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter, for a fixed term of up to four years.
The doctoral researcher will develop image processing methods to analyze soil structure more deeply than conventional methods. The work also includes using image-based numerical flow simulations to determine soil hydraulic properties, setting up, maintaining, and analyzing semi-field experimental setups, and potentially designing and constructing research equipment.
Who we are looking for
Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree, for example in physics, soil science, computer science, nanoscience, or computationally oriented biology. The following are considered advantages:
- Experience and interest in numerical methods and data or image analysis
- Programming skills
- Willingness to work in laboratory and field environments
The position focuses on doctoral research, postgraduate education, assisting in teaching, and related tasks. Requirements for the position, qualifications, and language skills are defined in the university's regulations. Good written and spoken English is required. A six-month probationary period applies.
The position focuses 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). Good written and spoken English is required. A six-month probationary period applies.
Applicants must have a Master’s degree and be eligible for doctoral studies at the University of Jyväskylä. If the selected candidate does not yet have the right to pursue doctoral studies, they must apply separately (a separate application) from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science. Students nearing the completion of their Master’s degree may also apply.
Benefits
At the University of Jyväskylä, you will be a valued member of an international and multidisciplinary academic community. We offer excellent facilities for a healthy and active lifestyle on and near campus.
At Luke, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful and diverse work tasks and challenge yourself professionally. Luke offers a multidisciplinary international research environment that includes unique research infrastructures, experimental stations, and well-equipped laboratories. We provide flexible hours, and as your employment with us continues, long vacations as well as lunch benefits and support for sports, cultural activities, and commuting.
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.
Salary:
- At the University of Jyväskylä: For a full-time position the salary would be EUR 2500/month at the start, adjusted as the doctoral work progresses (task level 2–4).
- At Luke: The position is at complexity level 6 in Luke's salary system and the position-specific salary for a full time position is EUR 3014,85 per month. In addition, a salary component based on personal performance will be paid (max. 50% of the position-specific salary). A new employee's personal performance component depends on competence and experience and generally falls in the range of 15-20 %. The applicant may also present a separate salary request.
The employment contract is split 50/50 between JYU and Luke.
How to apply?
Applications must include the following documents in English (PDF format):
- CV following good scientific practice (see the guidelines The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity).
- A short free-form motivation letter (max 2 pages) outlining your research interests, career goals, and relevant experience.
- Degree certificate (highest degree obtained).
Submit your application by September 30, 2025, via the electronic form. Applications sent by email will not be considered.
Contacts:
- Research Professor Jari Hyväluoma (Luke): jari.hyvaluoma@luke.fi
- Senior Researcher Arttu Miettinen (JYU): arttu.i.miettinen@jyu.fi
Security clearance: A basic security clearance may be conducted with the applicant’s consent. For more information on the procedure and the rights of applicants, see www.supo.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 recruitment 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 Physics
The primary areas of research at the Department of Physics are materials physics, nuclear physics and particle physics. In materials physics, the core research fields are the physics of nanomaterials and thin films, quantum matter and quantum technologies, light-matter interaction and physics and chemistry of nanoparticles. Nuclear physics concentrates on nuclear astrophysics, nuclear structure and applied accelerator-based research, and particle physics on the physics of the strong interaction and ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions, particle cosmology and neutrino physics. The department hosts an Academy of Finland Center of Excellence in Quark Matter.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and well-being 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 Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organisation that builds sustainable future and well-being from renewable natural resources. We create knowledge-based solutions and services for our customers and add value to a sustainable and competitive business based on renewable natural resources. We also support public policy making related to natural resources and the resource economy.
Luke's tasks and organisation are regulated in the Act on the Natural Resources Institute Finland (561/2014). Luke is operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland.
Being open-minded, curious, and having a strong will to make a positive impact in the world bind Luke people together. We value our diverse working community consisting of people with different backgrounds and cultures and promote equality. On this basis, we are building a cheerful and respectful culture in which everyone’s input is appreciated. Sustainability is included in all our operations.
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.
