Postdoctoral Researcher in Statistical Ecology
The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is currently seeking to recruit candidate for POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN STATISTICAL ECOLOGY. The position starts on 1st September 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter and is fixed-term of three years.
We are seeking a highly motivated researcher with backgrounds in statistics, machine learning, computer science or mathematics, with an interest in developing novel methods for analyzing ecological data. The successful candidate will join Academy Professor Otso Ovaskainen’s research team at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä. The working environment involves a high amount of other international and multidisciplinary collaboration. Ovaskainen leads the international ERC-synergy project LIFEPLAN 2020-2026 (“Planetary Inventory of Life”) that combines a global biodiversity sampling campaign (based on DNA-, audio- and image-based methods) with the development of bioinformatics and statistical methods for big ecological data.
Who we are looking for
You are the person we are looking for if you have a Doctoral degree, or are about to obtain a Doctoral degree in statistics, machine learning, computer science or mathematics, and if you have an interest in applying your skills in the context of biodiversity research. Alternatively, you may have a Doctoral degree, or are about to obtain a Doctoral degree in ecology, and are experienced in applying advanced statistical methods in biodiversity research. While the exact application field can be selected based on the expertise and interests of the applicant, we are particularly interested in the development and/or applications of joint species distribution modelling (see e.g., Ovaskainen and Abrego 2020: Joint Species Distribution Modelling – With Applications in R. Cambridge University Press).
The applicant is expected to have excellent written and oral communication skills and to be able to work independently. The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of the postdoctoral researchers are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. A good command of English is required and a proficiency to teach in English will be considered beneficial. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position. 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.
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 annual salary range for the postdoctoral researchers will be approximately 44,000 - 51,000 EUR, gross income, including holiday bonus), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.
How to apply?
The application documents that should be included in PDF format:
- A two-page long 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 and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
- Cover letter including a statement of research interests.
- A numbered list of publications, if any
- Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion of the PhD)
- *Research plan is not mandatory, please submit a blank file instead.
Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by July 24th, 2024.
For further details, please contact: Professor Otso Ovaskainen, otso.t.ovaskainen@jyu.fi
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 Department 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.
The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing 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 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.
