Postdoctoral Researcher, Environmental DNA , Ecology and Genetics Research Unit

We are looking for

a Postdoctoral Researcher in Environmental DNA based Biodiversity Monitoring

to join us in the Ecology and Genetics Research Unit at the Faculty of Sciences as part of the European Union Interreg Aurora project NORTHDIVeRSITY.

NORTHDIVeRSITY (https://www.luke.fi/en/projects/northdiversity) is an international collaboration between the University of Oulu in Finland, the Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE) and the Umeå University in Sweden to establish environmental DNA (eDNA) based biodiversity monitoring as an efficient tool for routine biodiversity monitoring.

In the last decades massive global changes have been recorded, resulting in altered ecosystems and large-scale biodiversity loss. These changes have been shown to be especially pronounced in Northern regions. However, biodiversity is essential for the functioning of ecosystems and human well-being. To reverse this trend and ensure sustainable livelihoods, regional, national and international agreements demand actions. These include the identification, protection and restoration of low biodiversity habitats. However, identifying these using traditional methods is costly and time-demanding. To streamline this process in the North, the project uses, validates and develops efficient environmental DNA (eDNA) based monitoring tools and approaches, specifically tailored to Northern habitats. The approaches will be developed in close collaboration with national and international stakeholders.

About the job

As a postdoctoral researcher you will:

• establish and validate molecular approaches for biodiversity monitoring (especially of terrestrial and freshwater habitats)
• work in an international research team
• work with national and international stakeholders
• support Master's and PhD students
• be involved in Master's and PhD level teaching
• will be part of a multidisciplinary research group
• participate in external funding calls.

What we offer?

• The support of an experienced and enthusiastic team where you can share your expertise and grow as an expert.
• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here.
• Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and close ones in settling into Oulu.
• Development and career options of the big organization.
• We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a high quality of life, safety, an excellent education system, and a competitive economy. Read more about living in Oulu.

Who are you?

In order to succeed and enjoy the position, we expect from you: 

• Doctoral degree in the field of Molecular Biology or Genetics, Zoology, Ecology or other related fields. The degree must be obtained no more than 10 years ago.
• Proven experience working with environmental DNA, both in the laboratory as well as on the analyses of large-scale eDNA data.
• Ability for independent and creative scientific work.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Ability to conceive, execute and complete research projects
• Being a team player.
  
  

We also appreciate

• Experience working with stakeholders.
• Experience with method development or standardizations.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for from the 01.06.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter until the 31.11.2027.

The salary will be based on levels 5-6 of the demand level chart for teaching and research staff of Finnish universities. In addition, a salary component based on personal work performance will be paid (a maximum of 50 % of the job-specific component). The starting gross salary will be approx. 3600-4200 € per month (before taxes).  

A trial period of 6 months is applied for the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 14.04.2025 (23:59 Finnish local time) through our recruitment system.

The application should be written in English and include the following:

1. CV, following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity 
2. Cover letter
3. List of publications, following the guidelines of the Academy of Finland 
4. Certificates/Diplomas
5. Contact information of 2 persons available for recommendation

The eligible applicants fitting best in the profile expected for the position will be invited to an on-site or remote interview. All applicants will be notified during the selection process.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, such as people of different ages, different genders, and members of different languages, cultural or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact Assistant Professor Stefan Prost (stefan.prost@oulu.fi).