Doctoral candidate / Project researcher position in fish evolutionary physiology

The position is located in the Department of Biology, University of Turku, Finland. The Doctoral student / Project researcher will work on an Academy of Finland-funded project “Physiological basis of fish adaptation to freshwater hypoxia: from plasticity to evolution” led by Dr Amélie Crespel. The position is fixed term from September 1, 2022 and last for three years, with possibility of extension.

Hypoxia (i.e. low dissolved oxygen level in water) represents one of the most important climate change challenges for freshwater ecosystems. As the populations may not be able to escape the hypoxic conditions, it is crucial to understand how and through which mechanisms fish can adapt to these changing environments. When directly exposed, individuals may be able to adjust their aerobic and anaerobic metabolism through phenotypic plasticity. However, continued exposure over generations might require evolution. Also, non-genetic trans-generational effects may occur to facilitate adaptation across generations. This project will investigate the physiological mechanisms (from molecular to whole animal level) underlying fish response to hypoxia across generations as well as the genomic adaptation already present in the populations exposed to hypoxia in their natural environment. This project will provide valuable insights on population adaptive potential to changing environments and help to improve the prospects of sustainable management of natural environments.

The applicants are expected to have a relevant MSc degree and to have experience in animal eco-physiology or evolution, fish metabolism or cardiovascular physiology, and mitochondrial or laboratory analysis. Interest in molecular biology, in particular in preparation of NGS libraries and computational biology, would be considered a benefit. The applicants are expected to plan and conduct experiments independently and to have excellent spoken and written English language skills.

The eligibility criteria are defined in the rules of procedure of the University of Turku.

There will be a trial period of 6 months.

The salary will be determined in accordance with the Finnish university salary system for teaching and research personnel. The salary for doctoral candidate / project researcher is at levels 2–4 on the job chart, where the work-specific salary component is between 2078.27 – 2591.28 euros per month. In addition, a personal work performance component will be paid. The component based on personal performance adds a minimum of 6 % and a maximum of 50 % to the base salary.

Applications must be submitted by Monday 25th of April, 2022 (23:59), using the electronic application form of the University of Turku on the following address: https://www.utu.fi/en/university/come-work-with-us/open-vacancies
The link to the application system is at the beginning of this announcement (Apply for the job).

Applicants need to submit a letter of motivation explaining their qualifications, interest for this position and why they are the best candidate for it, a Curriculum Vitae including work experience and a list of publications, the names and contact details of two-three senior scientists that can provide a reference,and a copy of their degree certificate with translation in English or Finnish (if applicable).

We reserve the right for justified reasons to leave the position open and to extend the application period if needed.

The University is committed to promoting non-discrimination, equality and diversity in our community. All interested applicants, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply.

For further information about the position, please contact Amélie Crespel, amelie.crespel@utu.fi.