PhD in Evolutionary Biology

University of Jyvaskyla; Jyväskylä; On-site; EUR 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Biology at the University of Jyväskylä will focus on understanding the interplay of natural and sexual selection in diversification. The position involves research on the freshwater isopod Asellus aquaticus as an empirical model, with opportunities to mentor undergraduates and contribute to teaching as part of doctoral training.

The role offers a dynamic international scholarly community, with teaching duties, potential supplemental funding, and a pathway

Qualifications

• The candidate should have a strong basis in evolutionary biology/evolutionary ecology.
• Some experience in experimental research and strong statistical skills are expected.
• The candidate should be independent and able to work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Research aimed at completing a doctoral thesis.
• Assist undergraduate student mentoring and teaching as part of doctoral training.
• Apply for supplemental funding for major research costs as needed.

Skills

Evolutionary biology

Evolutionary ecology

Experimental research

Statistics

Teamwork

Independent working

Education

Master's degree in a relevant field

Job description

The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is seeking to recruit a Doctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Biology starting 4 January 2027, or as soon as possible after that for a maximum of three years. The fixed-term position is for completing doctoral studies. The interactions between different evolutionary forces, including natural and sexual selection, are key to understanding the evolution of biological diversity over space and time. To increase understanding of the dynamic interplay between natural and sexual selection in driving diversification of natural populations at contemporary timescales, we are looking for a PhD candidate with a keen interest in evolutionary questions. The candidate will have freedom to develop their research in this broader context, with the freshwater isopod Asellus aquaticus – an emergent model - as an empirical model system. The species is sexually dimorphic, has extended maternal care and hosts a variable microbiome, providing ample opportunities to investigate different sources of variation in fitness. For candidates with theoretical background in evolutionary biology/ecology, empirical work can be combined with conceptual work. The Doctoral Researcher will join an international academic community at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science, which houses broad expertise in evolutionary theory, ecological and environmental research as well as molecular, experimental and digital tools.

Who should apply

The main focus of the PhD researcher will be in research, but the candidate is expected also to contribute to some undergraduate student mentoring and teaching as part of their doctoral training. Some basic funding is available to cover research costs. The candidate is expected to apply for supplemental funding in case of major research costs (depending on the type of methods of research the candidate is interested in pursuing). The candidate is expected to have a strong basis in evolutionary biology/evolutionary ecology. The ideal candidate should have some experience in experimental research, as well as strong statistical skills. The candidate should be independent and work well in a team, as well as be willing to engage in a thriving scientific community. 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). A good command of English is required. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment. 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. After selection, the selected person must apply for postgraduate study rights through a separate application procedure from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science.

What we offer

Come to Jyväskylä, Finland, and join our vibrant and inspiring community! 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 Doctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 2–4 for teaching and research staff. The starting salary will be approximately EUR 2500 per month (gross income). A holiday bonus is paid to all employees. With progress of thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers. 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.

For further information, please write to Associate Professor Jussi Lehtonen, [e-mail] and Professor Katja Räsänen, [e-mail] who will be the supervisors of the PhD student. 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 Good science, good life! The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is an international and multidisciplinary research community conducting impactful research to improve understanding of biodiversity, the environment and biological systems, from the molecular and cellular levels to biological communities and ecosystems. Our research strengths include evolutionary biology, natural resources and the environment, and biological nanoscience. We work closely with partners in academia, the public sector, and industry. Our research is supported by high-quality, versatile infrastructure on the Ylistönrinne campus, including the modern laboratories and experimental facilities in the Ambiotica building and in the Nanoscience Center. Field and laboratory teaching are central to our curriculum. By combining theory with practical experience, we prepare students to address real-world challenges. 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 department has approximately 200 staff members and 450 students. Together, they form an international and supportive community that brings together research, education and societal impact.