Doctoral Researcher, GEDROPA -project
Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences is seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher for the "Genetic and biological drivers of physical activity and exercise participation (GEDROPA)" -project. The position will start on April 7, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. The contract will initially be for one year, with the possibility of extension. The fixed-term position is based on postgraduate studies.
In the GEDROPA project, we study from a biological perspective the selection of a physically active lifestyle and participation in lifestyle interventions. The aim of the project is to understand why some people are more active than others, and whether offered physical activity interventions increase or reduce health inequalities in the population.
Genetics is one of the most significant factors explaining physical activity behavior. Twin studies indicate that the heritability of physical activity is approximately 30–60%. The rationale for the genetic regulation of physical activity behavior is strong, extending to human evolution and the selection of traits that have supported survival in environments with limited resources. Due to previous methodological limitations, it has not been possible to study individual differences in this phenomenon and explore why some people are more active than others. We also do not know whether people who are biologically predisposed to be more active are more likely to participate in physical activity interventions, and whether this leads to increasing health inequalities within the population. The project utilizes large biobank datasets as well as long-term lifestyle intervention studies conducted among Finns of different ages. The project is part of the internationally recognized GenActive research group. The project is funded by the Juho Vainio Foundation and the Päivikki and Sakari Sohlberg Foundation.
Who we are looking for
We expect you to have
- A relevant master's degree (in sports science, health science, bioinformatics, statistics, or another relevant field)
- Good communication skills and the ability to write high-quality scientific texts in English. Finnish language skills are considered an advantage.
- Motivation for postgraduate studies and perseverance to complete a doctoral dissertation, as well as the willingness to seek additional funding
- Willingness and ability to develop one's own expertise and capacity for independent and proactive research
- Ability to collaborate and willingness to work as part of a multidisciplinary research group to advance common research goals
The tasks of a Doctoral Researcher focus 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). The eligible candidate has, or is about to obtain, a suitable Master's degree. In addition, the
Doctoral Researcher must have a permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä. If the applicant does not have permission for post-graduate studies, it must be applied with a separate application procedure from the faculty of Sport and Health Sciences after selection for the position. Working location is Jyväskylä. 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 Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately 2500 €/month (gross income). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.
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 requirements of this position. In addition, those still completing their master's degree are asked to include a plan for their graduation schedule.
- Degree certificate (highest degree)
Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 8 March 2026. Applications sent via emails are not considered.
For further information, please contact Project leader, Postdoctoral Researcher Laura Joensuu: laura.p.joensuu@jyu.fi, tel. +358504363466 (call time 2-3 March at 12:00–14:00) and Associate Professor Elina Sillanpää: elina.sillanpaa@jyu.fi, tel. +358 40 1429639 (call time 2-3 March at 12:00–14:00).
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.
Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences
At the University of Jyväskylä, everyone can find their place in the human-centred environment of 2,600 experts and 14,700 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.
Education and research in sport sciences in Finland are concentrated at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences of the University of Jyväskylä. There are two main lines of study at the Faculty: Sport Sciences and Health Sciences. Links between physical activity and health as well as promotion of exercise and health are viewed from a multidisciplinary perspective with the improvement of health, functional ability, and wellbeing across the human lifespan as the key aim.
Information for the applicant
The application form cannot be saved as draft. However, 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.
You have 6 hours to complete your application before the timeout.
