Doctoral researcher, Evolutionary ecology and genetics

We are looking for a PhD researcher at the Department of Biological and Environmental Science at the University of Jyväskylä to join a project "The non-target role of fungicides (NoT-FUN)" funded by the Research Council of Finland. The three and half-year position will start on 2.1.2025 or as agreed.

Project description

Despite the wide use of agrochemicals, our understanding of their non-target effects are scarce. For instance, fungicide application in the field is considered to impose selection only on fungal pathogens, although non-target insects are simultaneously affected. Some fungicides target chitin pathways, which could also select for tougher/thinner cuticle among insects. Fungicides may select also insect gut mycobiome, a largely unknown part of insect gut microbiome and affect insect life history parameters. By taking an advantage of fungicide resistance action committee’s (FRAC) mode of action classification, we will test experimentally can fungicides affect a beneficial pollinator honeybee's (Apis mellifera) physiology (respiration, lipidome, cell wall) and mycobiome (diversity/volume) and test the extend these changes can affect beneficial insects. If fungicides effect extent on insect’s life-history, it could shed also light to the recent decline of insects.

Qualifications

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Ecology, Evolutionary biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or other appropriate scientific discipline. A good candidate should also have an interest in developing insect evolutionary ecology. We require strong motivation to write a PhD thesis, excellent collaboration skills, and good oral and written English language skills. Experience in molecular methods, microbiology, bioinformatics/statistics would be an advantage. We expect the candidate to work both with ecological/genetic laboratory as well as experimental field work. The project will allow for the design of additional PhD dissertation topics according to the candidates own interests.

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Doctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. The MSc degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position. Doctoral Researcher needs to be also enrolled in the doctoral programme which can be applied from the Faculty of Mathematics and Science after selection for the position.

We offer

• Supervision in all aspects of the work (from field to lab), possibility to join workshops to improve specific skills in e.g. bioinformatics, data analysis.
• Possibility to work in collaborator’s laboratory in Germany
• International, enthusiastic working environment (working language is English) in a friendly research group with a large collaborator network.
• Excellent research infrastructure at Jyväskylä with modern fully equipped molecular laboratories and state-of-the-art scientific equipment, software, access to journals and scientific databases.
• Resources for travel to conferences or workshops.
• Funding for 3.5 years in the doctoral program of the University of Jyväskylä

The position will be based at the University of Jyväskylä, where the student will join the PhD programme in Biological and Environmental Science. At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with an ample opportunity to be drawn into international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community, where everybody’s welfare is essential. You will work in an inspiring and lively campus area and an environment that supports a healthy and active lifestyle. 

Finland has a high standard of living with healthcare, free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, and good family benefits. The city of Jyväskylä is located in central Finland amidst Finnish lakes and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. It is a major educational center, whose large student population is responsible for a vibrant cultural scene. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä, and living in Finland, see the University's Handbook for international staff and visitors

The initial annual salary will be approximately 30,000 EUR (gross income, including a holiday bonus). With progress of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Universities. The employment starts with a trial period of six months.

How to apply

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

1. A two-page long Curriculum vitae, composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
2. Max 1-page motivation letter describing your scientific interests and key motivation for applying for this position
3. A numbered list of publications, if any
4. Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the MSc) and a transcript of the studies

Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on the submitted documents following the recommendations for the responsible evaluation of a researcher in Finland. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a personal interview. 

Informal enquiries to Leena Lindström (leena.m.lindstrom@jyu.fi) about the position are welcome.