Postdoctoral Researcher, Evolutionary Environmental Biology
Department of Biological and Environmental Science is seeking to recruit a Postdoctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Environmental Biology starting 1 December 2026, or as soon as possible after that for two years in the research group of Professor Katja Räsänen.
The interactions between different evolutionary forces, including natural and sexual selection, influence organismal responses to environmental change and, subsequently, their potential to influence ecosystem processes (i.e. eco-evolutionary dynamics). To increase understanding of the dynamic interplay between these different sources of ecological and evolutionary variation in the context of environmental change, we are looking for an experienced postdoctoral researcher with keen interest in evolutionary ecology, integrative biology and environmental sciences. The candidate will have freedom to develop their research in this broader context, focusing on organismal /population and/or ecosystem level eco-evolutionary processes as relevant. One potential empirical study system in the team of Prof. Räsänen is the emerging eco-evolutionary model organism, the freshwater isopod Asellus aquaticus, which is well suited for a broad range of biological and environmental studies.
The main focus of the postdoctoral researcher will be in research, but the candidate is expected also to contribute to student mentoring and teaching experimental ecology, evolutionary biology and/or applied evolutionary ecology. Some basic funding for research is available, but the candidate is expected to apply for additional funding to cover major research costs.
Who should apply
- The ideal candidate should have a strong conceptual basis in evolutionary biology, a keen interest in ecology and some experience in experimental research, as well as strong statistical skills.
- Teaching experience and experience in applying for funding are strong merits but not requirements.
- The candidate should be independent and work well in a team, as well as be willing to engage in a thriving scientific community.
The duties, qualification requirements, and language skills of a postdoctoral researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before the starting date. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.
What we offer
Come to Jyväskylä, Finland, and join our vibrant and inspiring community!
The postdoctoral fellow will join an international academic community at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science, which houses broad expertise in evolutionary theory, ecological and anvironmental research as well as molecular, experimental and digital tools.
At the University of Jyväskylä, you will be a valued member of our community with a unique opportunity to contribute to international research. You will become part of our international and multidisciplinary community that prioritizes the wellbeing of each individual. Our lively campus provides excellent opportunities for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle.
Finland, named the world’s happiest country for consecutive years since 2018, offers a high standard of living with free education (also in English), affordable childcare, generous family benefits, and comprehensive healthcare. Work–life balance is highly valued in Finland, and employees enjoy four to six weeks of annual holiday. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland, just three hours by train from the capital Helsinki. Part of the Finnish Lakeland, the city offers easy access to nature and a range of outdoor, sports and exercise activities. As a major centre of education with a large student population, it also features a vibrant cultural scene. For more information about the University of Jyväskylä, the city of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.
Salaries are based on job demands and employees’ performance following the Finnish University Salary System. The salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 5–6 for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately 3600-4800 €/month (gross income), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. A holiday bonus is paid to all employees. If you are relocating from abroad, we will support your move to Jyväskylä and Finland.
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.
How to apply?
To apply, your ORCID profile (https://orcid.org) must be up to date and your publications must be visible to the public (Set visibility: Everyone).
The application documents that should be included in English and in PDF format:
- A 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.
- A short and informal 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.
- A numbered list of all scientific publications and other publications showing the applicant's ability and merits for the position using the guidelines of the Research Council of Finland.
- Degree certificate (highest degree).
We look forward to receiving your application in our recruitment system by 2 November 2026.
For further information, please contact Professor Katja Räsänen, katja.j.rasanen@jyu.fi.
Our application process is transparent, professional and international. We communicate openly with the applicants throughout the recruitment process. We value equality and diversity in our work community and encourage qualified applicants 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 community is very international, with over 30 nationalities presented. The Department´s main 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. In addition, the Konnevesi research station provides opportunities for large scale ecologically relevant experiments and field studies, as well as a location for workshops and field courses in a natural setting.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centred environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 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.
You cannot save your application as a draft. However, you have 6 hours to complete the application before the time limit expires. Once you have submitted your application, you can make changes at any time before the deadline using the link we will send to your email.
