Doctoral Researcher

The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in ecological networks and biodiversity conservation. The work will be based at the Viikki Campus in Helsinki, Finland. The doctoral researcher will work in the project ANEW – Arising Novelty in Ecological Networks: consequences for ecosystem functioning and biodiversity conservation, funded by the Research Council of Finland and Emil Aaltonen Foundation and work under the supervision of Academy Researcher Emma-Liina Marjakangas. The doctoral researcher will work closely with the Principal Investigator Marjakangas and other research staff in the project. The project also involves collaboration with Professors Heini Kujala (University of Helsinki, Finland) and Matthias Schleuning (Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Germany), who will co-supervise the doctoral researcher. Together, the team combines expertise in ecological networks, spatial ecology, conservation science, and biodiversity informatics. The position is available from 15 October 2026, or as agreed. About the position Understanding how ecosystems respond to global change is one of the central challenges in ecology. This doctoral project investigates how interactions between plants and seed dispersing animals are reorganized under global change, how these changes influence ecosystem functioning, and how this knowledge can be incorporated into biodiversity conservation. The doctoral researcher will focus on seed dispersal networks across Europe. The successful candidate will combine large-scale ecological datasets and species trait data, and use quantitative analyses to investigate how novelty of ecological networks varies across landscapes, which environmental factors drive these patterns, and how this knowledge can improve conservation prioritization. Project fieldwork will include resurveys of historical seed dispersal networks in Finland and other European countries. The project provides opportunities to work with large biodiversity datasets, collaborate with international researchers, and develop expertise in ecological networks, spatial analyses, and conservation science. The appointee is expected to complete an article-based PhD thesis based on the empirical material produced and 30 ECTs of studies required for a PhD degree in Finland. Selection criteria We are looking for a highly motivated and curious candidate with a strong interest in ecology, quantitative analyses, biodiversity conservation, and global environmental change. The successful applicant must have: A Master's degree (completed before the start of employment) in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, biology, environmental sciences, or another relevant field Strong skills and experience in handling and analyzing ecological or environmental data Experience with data handling and analysis in R Experience in working with spatial datasets, either with R or GIS programmes or equivalent Excellent writing skills Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English The ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research team Strong motivation to pursue and complete a doctoral degree The following qualifications are considered an advantage: Knowledge of global change ecology, conservation biology, and/or functional ecology Bird and/or plant identification skills Experience with writing and/or contributing to scientific publications The appointee should either already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree in Doctoral Programme in Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Sustainability in Society at the University of Helsinki by the start of the appointment or apply for the right and obtain it within the probationary period of six months of their appointment. Why work for us? This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of community ecology, biodiversity science, and conservation. You will investigate how ecological interactions respond to global environmental change while helping to develop new approaches for conserving ecosystem functioning in a rapidly changing world. You will join the ANEW research team at the University of Helsinki, consisting of the Principal Investigator, a postdoctoral researcher, and a research assistant in addition to the recruited doctoral researcher. As the first researcher recruited, you will have an excellent opportunity to help shape the project's scientific direction from the beginning while working in a collaborative, supportive, and international research environment. The project offers outstanding opportunities to develop an international research profile. You will collaborate closely with researchers at the University of Helsinki and the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre in Germany, participate in international conferences, conduct fieldwork in Finland and elsewhere in Europe, and complete a research visit in Germany during your doctoral studies. The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences is an internationally recognized research environment with strong expertise in ecology, evolution, conservation biology, and environmental sciences. Located on the Viikki Campus, it provides excellent research infrastructure and a vibrant international scientific community. The University of Helsinki supports researchers through extensive training opportunities, language courses, and career development services. Salary and working hours The position is funded for a maximum of 47 months (~4 years). The gross monthly salary is based on levels 2–4 in the salary system of Finnish universities (starting salary ~€2600/month), depending on the appointee's qualifications and stage of doctoral studies, and includes a personal performance component. Five percent of the working time is expected to be devoted to teaching and undergraduate student supervision. Further information about staff benefits is available on University of Helsinki website. The doctoral researcher should reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki. The University assists employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland. Finland is a member of the European Union, has high quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare. Helsinki offers an outstanding quality of life, and Finland is consistently ranked among the world's best countries for safety, work-life balance, education, and family-friendliness. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive occupational health care, flexible working hours, excellent sports facilities, staff training opportunities, and support for international employees relocating to Finland.