We are seeking a PhD researcher to uncover how anaerobic microbes drive old carbon degradation in deep peat. This 4-year project offers international collaboration and an excellent opportunity to grow your research career.
Job description
Peatlands store vast amounts of carbon in thick peat layers. However, warming temperatures may cause this carbon to escape into the atmosphere as greenhouse gases. While greenhouse gas emissions have been intensively studied, little is known about the early steps of carbon breakdown deep in the peat. This project explores how anaerobic microbes - many of them dormant but still active at low levels - help degrade ancient carbon in deep peat layers. By focusing on overlooked processes like fermentation and acetogenesis, the project aims to understand how these microbes contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
We are seeking a PhD student to join Luke's Soil Ecosystems group for a four-year project funded by the Academy of Finland called "Sleeping Beauty - Revealing the hidden diversity of dormant microbes in deep peat, their contribution to intermediary processes in the degradation of old carbon and potential implications for greenhouse gas emissions". This position is an excellent opportunity to develop a scientific career and work with leading groups in the field.
Our expectations of the applicant
- MSc or equivalent in microbiology, microbial ecology, molecular biology, biochemistry, soil science or related fields
- in-depth knowledge about soil biochemical cycles and anaerobic processes
- hands-on experience with work in lab including: gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectrophotometry, incubation studies, cultivation of microbes
- hands-on experience with field work and sampling
- experience with molecular techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR
The position involves intensive lab and field work in Luke and includes a planned research visit to Monash University, Australia (Chris Greening’s group, 4 months), thus eagerness for lab- and fieldwork and a research visit is a must. The successful applicant should possess good co-operational and communication skills. Excellent skills in oral and written English are required.
We offer you
The well-being of our people and a positive approach towards innovation and development are particularly important to us. Our mobile work model allows you to work in Finland in the location most appropriate for your work. In addition, we provide flexible hours, and as your employment with us continues, long vacations. We offer lunch benefits, as well as sports, culture, or commuting support.
Clarifications
The person selected for the position might need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More detailed information on the procedure and the subject's rights is available at www.supo.fi.
Contact information
Katharina Kujala
Senior Scientist, available after 13.7.
+358 29 532 2772
[email protected]
Päivi Mäkiranta
Group Manager, available until 10.7.
+358 29 532 2343
[email protected]
How to apply
We primarily request that applications be submitted electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you may also apply for this position by submitting your application to the registry office’s postal address. The ID number of the position applied for must be clearly stated both in the application and on the envelope. The application must be received by the end of the application period. Late applications will not be considered. Application documents will not be returned. Based on the information provided in the application documents, including education, work experience, and other relevant factors, applicants will be selected for interviews. Eligibility requirements will also be assessed with regard to the expected qualification.
The Registry of Natural Resources Institute Finland
Latokartanonkaari 9
00790 Helsinki, Finland
Employer
Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organisation that builds sustainable future and well-being from renewable natural resources. We create knowledge-based solutions and services for our customers and add value to a sustainable and competitive business based on renewable natural resources. We also support public policy making related to natural resources and the resource economy.
Luke's tasks and organisation are regulated in the Act on the Natural Resources Institute Finland (561/2014). Luke is operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland.
Being open-minded, curious, and having a strong will to make a positive impact in the world bind Luke people together. We value our diverse working community consisting of people with different backgrounds and cultures and promote equality. On this basis, we are building a cheerful and respectful culture in which everyone’s input is appreciated. Sustainability is included in all our operations.
Location
Oulu
Other details
More information: Each person selected will undergo a sanctions check based on compliance with international and national sanctions obligations. In addition, a background check may be carried out on the selected person to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the person if they do not have Finnish citizenship.
Level of position: Specialists
Remote work: Possibility to work remotely
Description of the remote work: Mobile work is used at Luke. This means that work is performed where it suits best. Mobile work is only possible within Finland, and the practices of mobile work are agreed with the supervisor. We also meet regularly face-to-face.
Reason for fixed-term employment: Nature of work
Working time format: Office working hours
Trial period: The trial period is half the duration of the employment contract, but not exceeding six (6) months.
Remuneration information: The position is at complexity level 6 in Luke's salary system and the position specific salary is EUR 3014,85 per month. In addition, a salary component based on personal performance will be paid (max. 50% of the position specific salary). A new employee's personal performance component depends on competence and experience and generally falls in the range of 15-20 %. The applicant may also present a separate salary request.
