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

3 POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHERS in BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

The positions start on October 1, 2021 or as agreed, for a period of 2-3 years.

We are looking for Postdoctoral Researchers to work in the following projects:

1. Sexual selection from first principles, PI Academy Research Fellow, Assistant Professor Jussi Lehtonen

The female and male sexes are biologically defined by their gamete size: the producer of the larger gamete (e.g. egg) is by definition female, and vice versa. One of the oldest and to this day most debated questions in evolutionary biology concerns the consequences of this definitional gamete size difference. Can sex-specific trait evolution be traced all the way back to such 'first principles'? Although there are many models of sexual selection and gamete evolution, very few models connect the two showing how gamete size could influence sex-specific evolution of traits such as competition for mates, mate choice, or parental investment.

2. Microbiome underlying winter adaptations, PI Assistant Professor Suvi Ruuskanen

All animals on our planet carry microorganisms in their gut. Gut microbiome has recently been shown to be strongly linked to health in human and model animals. Winter at high latitudes proposes an energetic and thermoregulatory challenge, influencing survival. Studies in mammalian model organisms suggest that the microbiome changes with temperature and there is proof-of-concept data that this compositional shift in microbiome occurs as an adaptive response to a cold environment. Our overarching aim is to test the hypothesis, whether and how the microbiome can contribute to host cold tolerance and ultimately affect survival in wild bird populations.

3. Filamin mechanosensor in muscle development and disease, PI Professor Jari Ylänne

This Academy of Finland research project studies a novel actin cytoskeleton-linked mechanosensory signaling pathway and the role of filamin in muscle diseases. During the project the Postdoctoral Researcher will focus either on structural biology/enzymololy or in Drosophila melanogaster indirect flight muscle development.

Read more detailed information and specific qualifiacations we are looking for on the web page 3 Postdoctoral Researchers.

You are the person we are looking for if you have a PhD degree in a relevant dicipline, if you have a proven ability to conduct independent scholarly work, and if you have demonstrated capability and motivation for an academic career through publications, research funding and other means. 

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Postdoctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. A good command of English is required and a proficiency to teach in English will be considered beneficial. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before starting 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 range will be approximately 41,000 - 47,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. 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. A two-page long 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 and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
2. Motivation letter including a statement of research interests. It should be clearly identified the project which is applied for.
3. A numbered list of publications
4. Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the PhD)

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by August 22, 2021.

For further details, please contact: 

1. Academy Research Fellow Jussi Lehtonen, jussi.lehtonen@iki.fi
2. Assistant Professor Suvi Ruuskanen, suvi.k.ruuskanen@jyu.fi
3. Professor Jari Ylänne, jari.p.ylanne@jyu.fi
   

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.