Postdoctoral Researcher in Paleobiology, Faculty of Humanities

We are now seeking to recruit a

Postdoctoral Researcher in Mammal Paleobiology / Earth System Evolution

to join the Department of Archaeology at the Faculty of Humanities, University of Oulu. The position is part of the Deep History of Human Past research program within the Department of Archaeology. Our department hosts a multidisciplinary academic community where research topics range from the paleobiology of Neogene mammals of the Old World and human prehistory to cultural heritage and environmental archaeology.

About the job

You will be hired for the project “Understanding Past Ecosystems to Build a More Resilient Future,” funded by the Eudaimonia Institute Spearhead Project at the University of Oulu. The project investigates how tectonics, volcanism, and landscape evolution shaped mammalian and hominin ecosystems during the Late Neogene (12–2.5 million years ago). It focuses on the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province (CAVP) in Türkiye—a region with exceptional geological and fossil records offering unique opportunities to study long-term ecological and evolutionary processes. Through the integration of paleontological, geological, geochemical, and biological data, the project aims to uncover how Earth’s systems, climate, and life have interacted over millions of years, providing a deep-time perspective on faunal evolution under changing climatic and environmental conditions. You will be:

• Conducting and collaborating on research on fossil mammals and Late Neogene ecosystem evolution in the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province.
• Integrating paleontological, geological, and geochemical data to reconstruct paleoenvironmental and climatic contexts.
• Applying quantitative and modeling approaches (e.g., paleoclimate, landscape, or ecological niche modeling) to interpret ecosystem dynamics.
• Contributing to grant proposal preparation and co-authoring collaborative papers.
• Collaborating with doctoral and master’s students and contributing to mentoring and supervision.
• Participating in departmental and research group activities.
• Specific tasks can be refined based on your strengths and interests.

What we offer

• 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 your close ones in settling into Oulu.
• 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 a relevant field such as Paleontology, Evolutionary Paleobiology, Biology, Geology, Earth Sciences, or Biological Anthropology. The doctoral degree must have been completed by the closing date for applications. The degree must have been obtained no more than 10 years ago.
• Strong background in vertebrate paleontology, paleoecology, or Earth system evolution.
• Proven ability to conduct independent and collaborative research.
• A good publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

We also appreciate:

• Strong familiarity with the paleobiogeography and paleoecology of Old World Cenozoic mammals.
• Experience in statistical analysis, programming, spatial modeling, and database management
• Knowledge of mammalian skeletal and osteological morphology.
• Strong collaboration and mentoring skills and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research.

Salary

The position is fixed-term for three (3) years, starting on 12.1.2026 (or as agreed).

The salary will be based on the 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. 3700-4300 € per month (before taxes). A trial period of 6 months is applied to the position.

How to apply?

Interested? If yes, please apply by 12.11.2025 (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 linguistic, cultural, or minority groups. 

Contact Information

If you have any further questions, please contact: Ferhat Kaya, kaya.ferhat@oulu.fi