Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) in Ecological Networks and Biodiversity Conservation Full-time

Doctoral Researcher (PhD Student) in Ecological Networks and Biodiversity Conservation

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 position is available from 15 October 2026, or as agreed. 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 University of Helsinki supports researchers through extensive training opportunities, language courses, and career development services. Read more about why the University of Helsinki is an excellent career choice: working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland.

How to apply: Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the link below. Current employees of the University of Helsinki must submit their applications through SAP Fiori's Suffeli recruitment portal. Please submit your application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system via the Apply Now button no later than the end of 31 August 2026 (23:59 Helsinki time). Your application should include the following documents written in English as a single pdf called “lastname_firstname”: A motivation letter (maximum one page) describing your research interests, motivation, and suitability for the position A curriculum vitae (with a list of publications, including manuscripts in preparation) The names and full contact details of two referees A copy of your Master's thesis. If your thesis has not yet been completed, please submit the most recent version together with an explanation of its current status. A copy of your transcript of records, including completed Master's level courses (or equivalent), together with an explanation of the grading system and the weighted average of your grades (GPA) A copy of your Master 's diploma. If you have not graduated at the time of applying, please describe your remaining studies and timeline to graduate before the starting date. Applicants must have completed their Master's degree before the start of employment.