AdresseThe researcher will study damage risks in boreal forests, especially the role of drought therein. Topics include forest regeneration under stressful conditions and the role of forest structure and environmental conditions in explaining damage outbreaks.
Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is seeking a motivated early-stage researcher to join and complete a PhD in our multidisciplinary research group Forest Health and Biodiversity. The candidate will conduct his/her work and thesis within the Luke-coordinated Horizon Mission project “Precilience”. The part of the project relevant for the candidate explores the risks of climate change and droughts to the health and regeneration of boreal forests. The project offers a chance to deepen one´s knowledge in the functioning, diversity and health of boreal forest ecosystems and to develop solutions to tackle the climatic risks facing this ecosystem. The work is part of a wider research program, and the candidate will also undertake traveling and visiting periods in the partner countries of the project (Sweden, Norway, Estonia).
Your duties will involve the planning and execution of field- and laboratory-based research experiments, the analysis on the collected data and potentially the development of relevant models on the effects of climate change (esp. droughts) on boreal forests. The aim is, according to the requirements of a doctoral thesis, to publish the work in at least three international peer-reviewed research articles in respected scientific journals. The themes of the work will be related, but not delimited to forest health, ecology and diversity as well as forest pathology and entomology. You will also participate in relevant international scientific conferences as well as research networks and networking events, and exchange knowledge with colleagues in Finland and abroad. An ideal background for this position would involve understanding of forest ecology, coupled with expertise on forest pathology and entomology.
We offer a) chances to conduct cutting edge research and develop your skills in research and natural sciences, b) a multidisciplinary and supportive working environment, and c) chances to participate in international conferences and research networks and to get to know the relevant researchers and professionals from the field.
Your work at Luke will be supervised by Senior Scientist, Docent Eeva Terhonen and Research Scientist Markus Melin.
Our expectations of the applicant
- An MSc degree from relevant field (forest ecology, forest pathology, biology, environmental sciences, forestry etc.).
- Eligibility for doctoral studies.
- Demonstrated expertise in boreal forest ecosystems.
- Experience from ecological research methods, statistical analysis, and GIS techniques.
- Abilities to work and solve problems independently.
- Excellent communications and co-operation skills.
- Readiness for field work and traveling (due to field work, a valid driver´s license is mandatory).
- Fluent English skills, Finnish and Swedish skills are an advantage.
- Earlier experience of laboratory work is an advantage.
- Demonstrated expertise in boreal forest ecosystems is an advantage.
BenefitsOur 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.
For international recruits, we provide a relocation package, which includes concrete support for coming to Finland and Luke (eg. residence permit, various registration procedures, banking and taxation, finding an apartment).
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
Eeva Terhonen
Senior Scientist
+358 29 532 2484
eeva.terhonen@luke.fi
Markus Melin
Research Scientist
+358 29 532 2194
markus.melin@luke.fi
Riikka Linnakoski
Group Manager of Forest Health and Biodiversity
+358 29 532 2289
riikka.linnakoski@luke.fi
How to apply
Primarily, we request applicants to submit their applications electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you can also apply for this job by delivering your application to the Registry Office’s postal address. Both the application and the envelope must feature the ID number of the position applied for. The letter must be delivered by the end of the application period.
Organization
Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research and expert organisation that builds sustainable future and well-being from renewable natural resources. Through research, we create value and solutions for our customers and society by solving local and global challenges.
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. Sustainability is included in all our operations.
Location
Helsinki
