The University of Turku is a world-class multidisciplinary research university which offers interesting challenges and a unique vantage point to national and international research and education.

Postdoctoral researcher position to study invasive species as evolutionary agents

A two-year postdoc-position is open at the Department of Biology, University of Turku, in a project funded by the Academy of Finland.

The project focuses on evolutionary consequences of species invasions. Invasions are becoming more common with the global change, and the strong biotic interactions among native and introduced species cause changes in community composition and may generate novel selection pressures. Our objective is to understand how species invasions may reshape the selective environment in native communities. We will focus on adaptive evolution in native communities during range expansion of an invasive species, the mud crab (Rhithropanopeus harrisii) in the Baltic Sea, including cascading effects through the trophic levels. We will use a combination of field studies, manipulative experiments, common garden studies, and genomic analyses to reveal causalities and adaptive mechanisms. We will further summarize the accumulating evidence on native species’ evolutionary responses and identify factors behind their variation by means of quantitative synthesis. We believe that our approaches will greatly increase our knowledge on the role of evolution in biological invasions and will serve for renewing of invasion science. Furthermore, we hope to contribute to the management of invasive species by increasing our predictive capabilities of species and community level responses to global change.

The position will be available from 1^st Sep 2020 (starting time negotiable) to 31^st Aug 2022. Requirements include a PhD-degree in evolutionary biology, genetics or ecology, with relevant research experience, a strong track record of publications, and abilities for both independent and team-oriented work (including strenuous field/lab. work). Skills in genomics and bioinformatics, statistical analysis, ecological field work and familiarity with marine ecosystems are assets. Ideal candidate shows high motivation and enthusiasm for research, creativity and scientific vigor.

The position is subject to a six-month trial period.

The salary for the postdoctoral researcher is in accordance with the Finnish university salary system for teaching and research personnel, starting from 3146 €/month, the exact level depending on competence and personal performance.

Please submit your application using the online application system by Wednesday 5^th August 2020 (23:59) at the latest. The link to the online application system is https://www.utu.fi/en/university/come-work-with-us/open-vacancies.

The application documents should include:

1.                   Motivation letter explaining why you are interested in the position and what your strengths are.

2.                   CV including education and prior research experience.

3.                   List of publications

4.                   Copy of the certificate of the degree

5.                   Contact information (name, affiliation, e-mail) for at least two academic referees

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact Professor Veijo Jormalainen, veijo.jormalainen@utu.fi.