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

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER in AQUATIC SCIENCES 

The position is fixed-term from October 1, 2021, or as agreed, until August 31, 2027.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in the international "LIFE Revives" project which aims at improving status of the freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera and its salmonid hosts by river & catchment restoration measures and captive breeding, emphasising science-based conservation and monitoring. The 6-year EU LIFE project includes11 partners from Finland, Sweden and Estonia and is led by JYU. The JYU team will include professor, research coordinator, project manager, postdoctoral researcher and three technical assistants.

You are the person we are looking for if you have a PhD degree in biology, hydrobiology, aquatic sciences, ecology or some other relevant discipline, 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. As part of the JYU team, you will be responsible, e.g., for the establishment and monitoring of experimental pearl mussel juvenile habitat patches, for monitoring the status of M. margaritifera and salmonid fishes, monitoring project results and socio-economic impacts, reporting and publications. You will also actively contribute to captive breeding of mussels, networking, public awareness and dissemination of results. Competence in field work, diving experience and experience on the freshwater pearl mussel research will be considered an advance.

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
   1. Cover letter including a statement of research interests and explanation why you would fit to this position.
   2. A numbered list of publications
   3. Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the PhD)

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by September 5th, 2021.

For further details, please contact Professor Jouni Taskinen, jouni.k.taskinen@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.