Postdoctoral Researcher positions, Experimental Evolution and Genetics
We are seeking to recruit two Postdoctoral Researchers, to join to the research group of Associate Professor Ilkka Kronholm at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science, starting earliest on 6th January 2025, or as agreed for a fixed term of three years.
The genetics, epigenetics, and evolution group lead by Ilkka Kronholm studies the properties of mutations, broadly defined, including proterties of epistatic interactions and epigenetic changes. Our research questions are focused on understanding how different intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect evolutionary adaptation. As model systems we use the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa and fission yeast.
The post-doctoral researchers will join an ERC-funded project that studies the properties of epistatic interactions. Epistatic interactions are known to play an important part in certain aspects of evolution, such as speciation. However, the properties of epistatic interactions are not very well known. In this project, we will estimate the probability that a pair of fixed mutations will exhibit a negative epistatic interaction, possibly leading to incompatibilities between two populations. We are using experimental evolution in fission yeast to explore these questions.
Furthermore, we plan to estimate the probability that a pair mutations exhibits an epistatic interaction, and are there some genes in the genome that are more often involved in epistatic interactions than others. We plan to address these questions using transposon insertion libraries that will be constructed in different genetic backgrounds, that we have obtained by a mutation accumulation experiment in fission yeast.
Examples of recent work from the group includes developing mutation accumulation lines for the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa, and analysis of how chromatin modifications affect mutation rate, see:
Villalba de la Peña et al. 2023. Chromatin structure influences rate and spectrum of spontaneous mutations in Neurospora crassa. Genome Research 33: 1-13 https://doi.org/10.1101/gr.276992.122
Who we are looking for
To be eligible, the candidate needs to have a doctoral (PhD) degree in evolutionary biology, population genetics, genetics, or a related discipline with strong interest in evolutionary genetics.
- The first postdoc will be mainly involved in the experimental evolution project involving epistatic incompatibilities. For this project a background in either speciation genetics, experimental evolution, or evolutionary genetics is beneficial. While previous experience in fungal genetics can be an advantage it is not required. Experience with microscopy, microbiology, and analysis NGS data, and a good command of statistics can be an advantage.
- The second postdoc will be mainly involved in estimating epistatic interactions by constructing the TE insertion libraries in fission yeast. But will also contribute to the experimental evolution project. For this project background in evolutionary genetics or genetics is beneficial. Experience with yeast genetics and analysis of NGS data, and good command of statistics can be an advantage.
Good written and oral communication skills in English are required for both positions. Please note that while experience in NGS data analysis can be an advantage, both of these positions involve extensive wetlab part, and require previous wetlab experience. While the postdoctoral researchers are expected to contribute to the current project, and supervise students jointly with the PI, there is also the possibility to develop your own interests within the framework of the project or to participate in teaching if the researcher so wishes.
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.
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 salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 5–6 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately 3500-4800 €/month (gross income), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.
How to apply?
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).
- *Research plan is not mandatory for this position, please submit an empty file here to proceed with your application.
Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 8th December 2024. Applications sent via emails are not considered.
Informal inquiries are welcome and should be directed to Associate Professor Ilkka Kronholm
- email: ilkka.kronholm@jyu.fi
- lab website: ikronholm.net
- twitter: @kronholmlab
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 application 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 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.
