Doctoral Researcher in Paleobiology, Faculty of Humanities

We are excited to announce a new

Doctoral Researcher in Mammal Paleobiology / Earth System Evolution

position at the Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Oulu. The position is part of the Deep History of Human Past research program, which aims to support a doctoral project in paleobiology, focusing on mammal paleontology, biochronology, and biogeography. 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.

The doctoral researcher will investigate fossil mammal assemblages (both large and small mammals) from Neogene and Quaternary paleontological sites in Türkiye, focusing on the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province. Main responsibilities include documenting and assessing biological and geological data such as faunal lists, taxonomic composition, biochronology, biostratigraphy, depositional context, lithology, and sedimentology. The researcher will review the accuracy, consistency, and quality of chronological, ecological, and faunal data under the supervision of an international expert team. The primary goal of the doctoral project is to establish a comprehensive and updated database of Neogene and Quaternary fossil mammals from Türkiye, followed by comparative analyses of regional (Western Eurasian) faunal evolution — with particular emphasis on hominin primates — within well-defined temporal and spatial frameworks.

• As a doctoral researcher, your main task is to carry out your doctoral research — including developing a theoretical framework, collecting and analyzing data, and writing your dissertation — as well as completing your doctoral studies.
• You will contribute to other project-related activities, including preparing research funding applications.
• You will participate in the shared activities of the research group and the department.
• Your specific research responsibilities will be defined based on your expertise and interests.

What we offer

• Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits. 
• Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us.
• 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. 
• 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:

• Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Paleobiology, Paleontology, Biology, Geology, or Biological Anthropology. A Master's degree must have been completed before the start of the doctoral researcher's work
• Expertise in paleontology or zoology of mammals
• Experience in developing and conducting independent research projects
• Excellent command of English (both written and spoken)
• Experience with database management and related software tools
• See also the requirements of the University of Oulu Graduate School (UniOGS)

We also appreciate:

• High motivation, ability to work independently, and strong teamwork and interdisciplinary communication skills
• Experience in publishing scientific papers in life or geosciences, following good scientific practice
• Experience with statistical analysis software (e.g., R)

Salary

The position is full-time and fixed-term for three (3) years, starting on 12.1.2025 (or as agreed).

The salary will be based on the levels 2-4 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. 2600-3200 € 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. Cover letter
2. CV following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
3. Certificates/Diplomas
4. Contact information of two 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, genders, and linguistic, cultural, or minority groups. 

Contact Information

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