Postdoctoral Researcher — Evolutionary Genetics & Ecology of Colour and Performance
University of Helsinki, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences (Viikki Campus)

The Ecology and Evolution of Interactions (EEI) group, led by Professor Johanna Mappes, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on the genetics, ecology, and evolution of colour traits, immunity, and performance in the wood tiger moth (Arctia plantaginis).

Start date: Flexible, but ideally between now and March 2026.

Term: 2 years, with the possibility of extension.

Project context

Arctia plantaginis is an emerging model for colour polymorphism, defence, and host–parasite interactions. Our group maintains >17 years of field data, >60,000 pedigree individuals, and well-established laboratory populations from multiple geographic origins, alongside cutting-edge molecular facilities on the Viikki campus.

The postdoc will have the opportunity to develop an independent project within several thematic areas, depending on their background and interests. Potential directions include:

• Functional genomics of melanin and colour patterning
(regulation of cortex and linked loci, gene expression, pigment biosynthesis)

• Immunity and host–pathogen interactions
(pleiotropy between pigmentation and immunity, infection assays, eco-immunology)

• Female colouration, life-history traits, and eco-evolutionary dynamics
(genetic mapping, phenomics, G×E interactions, selection analyses)

• Integrative genotype–phenotype–fitness links,
using long-term pedigrees, field data, population genomics, transcriptomics, or experimental evolution.

The project can be tailored to the candidate’s strengths and may combine molecular, ecological, quantitative, and experimental approaches.

Collaborative environment

The postdoc will join a lively international network.

There are active opportunities for collaboration with several leading groups working on colour evolution, eco-genomics, and evolutionary developmental biology, including ongoing collaborations with Cambridge, Helsinki, and Münster (e.g. groups led by Chris Jiggins, Claudius Kratochwil, and Joachim Kurz).

These partnerships provide scope for joint analyses, exchange visits, and shared datasets, depending on project direction.

What we offer

• Starting salary for postdoctoral researchers at the University of Helsinki range from 3625–4060 euros depending on experience level and personal performance
• A friendly, collaborative, international research environment.

• Access to long-term datasets, pedigrees, and genetically well-characterised lab populations.
• State-of-the-art molecular facilities and core labs on the Viikki campus.
• Flexibility to design your own line of inquiry within colour, immunity, performance, and eco-genomics.
• Possibilities for collaboration within Finland and abroad.
  
  

The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers).

Required qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in evolutionary biology, ecology, genetics, or related fields.
• Expertise in molecular genetics/genomics (e.g. NGS, population genomics, transcriptomics).
• Strong quantitative/analytical skills and a peer-reviewed publication record.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, and to manage projects effectively.
  
  

Desirable (not required)

• Experience with insect models, host–pathogen systems, or pigmentation biology.
• Familiarity with immunity pathways; QTL/GWAS; or pedigree analyses.
• Competence in R/Python and reproducible workflows.
  
  

How to apply

Send as a single PDF:

1. CV and publication list;
2. A max. 2-page research statement outlining your interests, skills, and how your work fits the possible project directions;
3. Contact information for two referees.

External applicants, please submit your application using the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the Apply Now button.

Applicants who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment contract, a grant researcher's contract or a visiting researcher's contract at the University of Helsinki are requested to leave their application by using the Employee Login button.

 The closing date for applications is 7 January 2026 at 23:59 EEST.

Further information:

• About the position: Professor Johanna Mappes (Johanna.mappes@helsinki.fi).

• Recruitment system: rekrytointi@helsinki.fi

• Viikki Campus: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/campuses/viikki-campus

• Support for international staff: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/welcome and https://ihhelsinki.fi  (International House Helsinki)

• Why choose University of Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki

We value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.