Doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genetics

Karlstad University; Jyväskylä; On-site; EUR 40 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution in Finland is seeking a Doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genetics to join its innovative project on mutation and adaptation. The role involves conducting research, writing manuscripts, and completing a PhD thesis. Candidates should hold a master’s degree related to the field and have a strong interest in evolutionary genetics. The position offers a competitive salary with funding available for three years, with the possibility of extending for a fourth year.

Benefits

Access to a vibrant research community

Opportunities to influence international research

Lively campus area

Qualifications

• Strong interest in evolutionary genetics.
• Background in microbial work can be advantageous.
• Experience with fungal genetics or microbiology is not required.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the current project and plan research.
• Write manuscripts and complete a PhD thesis.
• Assist with teaching tasks as required.

Skills

Research planning

English communication skills

Computational skills

Statistical understanding

Education

Master’s degree in evolutionary biology or related field

Job description

Overview

The Doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genetics role at the University of Jyväskylä (JYU) is part of a nationally and internationally significant research environment. The genetics, epigenetics, and evolution group led by Ilkka Kronholm studies the properties of mutations, spontaneous epigenetic changes, and the genetic architecture of complex traits. The broader research aims to understand how different intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect evolutionary adaptation. Model systems include fission yeast and the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa. A large experimental evolution study using fission yeast is underway, with two postdocs and one other PhD researcher; the larger project is ERC-funded.

The project explores how mutations arising during adaptation affect life-history and physiological traits and how those changes influence fitness, i.e., the genotype–phenotype–fitness map and potential epistatic interactions. The system allows detailed investigation of genotype–phenotype relationships since genetic variation is limited, and the full power of fission yeast genetics can be leveraged. The candidate will have some freedom to tailor exact questions within the overall project framework.

The doctoral researcher is expected to contribute to the current project, plan and perform research, write manuscripts, and complete a PhD thesis. Participation in a limited amount of teaching can also be arranged.

Who we are looking for

You are the person we are looking for if you have a master’s degree in evolutionary biology, population genetics, genetics or a related discipline with a strong interest in evolutionary genetics. Previous experience with fungal genetics or microbiology is not required, but having some background in microbial work can be an advantage, as well as good computational skills and a solid understanding of statistics, particularly in the R environment. Good written and oral communication skills in English are required.

The duties of a Doctoral Researcher focus on research aiming at the completion of a doctoral thesis, doctoral studies, assisting teaching tasks, and other related tasks. The duties, qualification requirements, and language skills are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines (Doctoral Students). A trial period of six months will be used at the beginning of employment.

Doctoral researchers are required to have a higher university degree and the right to study for a postgraduate degree at the University of Jyväskylä. If the selected applicant does not already have the right to pursue postgraduate studies, they must apply for it separately from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science. Students who are in the final stages of their studies and have not yet completed their master’s degree at the time of application may also apply for the position.

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. The university offers 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 outdoor activities. The city has a large student population and a vibrant cultural scene. For information about the University, 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 task-specific demand level 2–4 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The starting salary is approximately 2500 €/month (gross). With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers.

Funding is available for three years, and if necessary, there are options for applying for funding for a fourth year.

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, including contact information of two people willing to provide a reference.
• A short and free-form cover letter (max 2 pages), explaining your motivation, research interests, and plans. Please do not use AI to write your cover letter.

Applications should be submitted via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by 31 October 2025. Applications sent via email are not considered.

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 focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is 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 motivated laboratory personnel.

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment with 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU’s campus is located in the heart 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 deadline.

Job details

Title: Doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Genetics

Closing: 31 October 2025 (Europe/Helsinki)