The person selected for the position is required to have demonstrated independent research with focus on ecology of plants and/or macroalgae in terrestrial or aquatic environments. We are especially interested in strengthening our knowledge base in one or more of the following topics: ecosystem-level processes including ecosystem function and services, community ecology, linking geodiversity and biodiversity (including GIS methodology), restoration and conservation biology, and ecological interactions. Capacity to develop teaching in our ongoing Master Degree Programs in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and in Environmental Science (starting 2027) is further considered a merit.

The applicant may be appointed to a permanent professor position (Full Professor) or to a fixed-term associate or assistant professorship (tenure track) depending on their previous academic merits. In general, we expect a demonstrated capacity to publish peer-reviewed international science independently, to have experience in supervision of M.Sc. and/or Ph.D. theses as well as in obtaining competitive research funding within the field of science covered by the position.

• For the position of Full Professor we are looking for experienced and internationally distinguished experts who have an excellent publication record and demonstrated success in obtaining external funding and capacity in leading a research group. Experience is also expected in teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as in mentoring of junior colleagues and leadership.
• For the position of Associate Professor, we emphasize international scientific publications, teaching experience and societal impact.
• For the position of Assistant Professor, we seek highly talented and already distinguished postdoc researchers and teachers who have passed the postdoc stage, are at the beginning of their career paths, demonstrate scientific potential, initiative and are innovative.

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

For information about the qualification requirements of the position in the University of Turku Rules of Procedure 

and the tenure track system of the University of Turku visit: Guidelines for the tenure track system at the UTU.

Job Description

The professor, associate or assistant professor

• conducts and supervises scientific research, provides teaching, supervises theses, and monitors the development of science, and participates in societal interaction and international cooperation in their field.
• collaborates with other research groups, forms and leads an independent research group, and obtain domestic and international research funding.
• actively participates in basic and postgraduate education and their development, as well as in the university administration tasks assigned to him/her.

In the Department of Biology, we explore life and biological evolution in a range of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Empirical experimentation in the field and laboratory is widely applied when digging into the structure and function of individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems. The Department of Biology is one of the scientifically most productive units of the University and successfully educates experts at all degree levels. It also harbors the Center of Evolutionary Applications that supports academic research and provides molecular genetic analyses for conservation needs outside the University.

In the Faculty of Science, we seek the truth and develop solutions for sustainable future and intelligent society. Science Fiction becomes reality.

The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community of 25,000 students and staff in Southwest Finland. We build a sustainable future with multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. With us, your work will have a significant impact and relevance in the changing world.

See our open vacancies