The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is currently seeking to recruit candidates to the position of 

DOCTORAL RESEARCHER in AQUATIC SCIENCES

The position starts on 3 January 2022 or as agreed, for a fixed term of four years. 

Within the Academy of Finland research project "How will multiple stressors impact cold-water lake food webs and their salmonid fishes? (COLDWEBS), we are looking for a highly motivated Doctoral Researcher with demonstrated experience in freshwater or fish ecology to pursue her/his doctoral studies at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland. The project investigates the influence of natural environmental factors (e.g. lake size, community composition and productivity) and human stressors (e.g. non-native species, hydropower operations and fishing) on the structure and function of food webs and the status of salmonid fish populations in cold-water subarctic and alpine lakes in Fennoscandia. The project will be largely based on compilation and statistical modelling of existing stable isotope (i.e., food web) and survey fishing data collected from over 100 cold-water lakes in Norway, Sweden and Finland, supplemented with new data collected during the project. Besides providing fundamental new knowledge about ecosystem processes, the project aims to find best practice solutions for sustainable management of cold-water lakes and their vulnerable salmonid fish stocks. During the project, the Doctoral Researcher will acquire comprehensive knowledge and experience in data management, statistical modelling, holistic research of lake ecosystem processes and fish populations, field and laboratory work in different Nordic countries (i.e., Norway, Sweden and Finland), as well as dissemination of research findings e.g. in the form of scientific publications and seminar presentations.

Qualifications we are looking for

You are the person we are looking for if you have 1) Master’s degree, or be about to obtain Master’s degree, in aquatic sciences, ecology, biology, environmental sciences or other relevant fields; 2) Experience in at least one of the following fields: freshwater ecology, fish biology, Arctic biology, statistics; 3) Practical experience or willingness to refine skills in stable isotope research and/or statistical modelling of large datasets; 4) Capability of conducting independent research and solid in English language and scientific writing; 5) Experience in data processing (e.g., R skills).

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Doctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The Master's degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position. Doctoral Researcher needs to be also enrolled in the doctoral programme which can be applied from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science after selection for the position.

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

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 Lake District having excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The City of Jyväskylä is a major educational center with a large student population and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. For more information regarding the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide.

The annual salary for a Doctoral Researcher will be approximately 28,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus). With progress of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Universities. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

How to apply

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

1. Curriculum vitae, including a publication list and contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters;
2. Motivation letter including a statement of research interests;
3. Relevant certificates / diplomas (or the date of completion the MSc);
4. Other relevant documents.

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 8 August 2021.

For further details, please contact: Senior Researcher/Academy Research Fellow Antti Eloranta, antti.p.eloranta@jyu.fi, +358 40 632 9524.

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

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the City of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.