Postdoctoral Researcher, Geography, Faculty of Science

We are now looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher to work in a two (2) year fixed-term position with our talented freshwater plant research team for the project Unraveling the effects of contemporary and historical changes in climate and land use on freshwater biodiversity in high-latitude regions of Europe and North America . The project is the Kvantum Institute’s spearhead project for the period of 2025-2028. Description of the position We are looking for one (1) talented and highly motivated research-oriented person to carry out postdoctoral research addressing the effects of contemporary and historical changes in climate and land use on freshwater biodiversity in high-latitude regions of Europe and North America. The project aims to answer: Is land-use intensification a stronger driver of change than changing climate in explaining historical freshwater plant diversity and distribution? Are historical legacies of past climates and land use still shaping distribution and functions of present-day freshwater flora in Europe and North America? Are there long-lasting biotic imprints affecting contemporary freshwater plant communities, and do these legacies differ between continents? The postdoctoral researcher will conduct research in the project (in a fixed two (2) year term), publish research results in reputable international journals, and contribute to developing new proposals to further research in this area. Other duties may include teaching in undergraduate courses (up to 10% of the total 1612 working hours per year) and co-supervising master's and doctoral students. Also, you will present research in the Kvantum Institute’s Researchers’ Seminar and possibly international conferences. In addition, you may have to participate in administrative tasks of the university and/or the Geography Research Unit. Description of the research team The postdoctoral researcher will join a multinational research team of biogeographers and ecologists. Dr. Janne Alahuhta (University of Oulu, Finland), MSc Misha Tseitlin (University of Oulu), Dr. Jorge Garcia-Giron (University of Leon, Spain), Dr. Daniel Larkin (University of Minnesota, USA) and Dr. Danelle Larson (US Geological Survey, USA) make up the project’s core research team. The position will be based in the Physical Geography Research Group ( PGRG ) co-led by Senior Researcher Janne Alahuhta and located at the University of Oulu, Finland. PGRG contributes to cutting-edge global change research by focusing on a wide range of complementing study questions related to abiotic and biotic earth surface systems, including also Macrophyte Biogeography Lab led by Dr. Alahuhta. Qualification requirements for the Postdoctoral researcher position PhD in Geography, Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Biostatistics, or another related discipline. The doctoral degree must have been received no more than 10 years ago. Demonstrated experience in community ecology or species distribution modelling using R. Advanced level work in R (or Python) and previous experience in functional and phylogenetic biodiversity approaches are considered an additional asset. Knowledge of aquatic ecosystems and/or aquatic plant ecology is considered a benefit. Basic expertise in GIS (e.g. ArcGIS or QGIS) is required; advanced level in GIS is preferred. Experience managing and harmonizing heterogeneous ecological, environmental, climatic, or related datasets is required. Ability for independent scientific work. Open-minded and enthusiastic towards research. Fluency in both written and spoken English. Good communication and teamwork skills. Proven track record of securing competitive research funding (e.g., national research council, foundations) is considered a strong merit. When assessing the candidate’s merits for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher, attention will be paid to scientific excellence, such as research outputs, international scientific activities and collaboration, supervision of undergraduate students, pedagogical competence, societal relevance, impact and potential of scientific activities, and services for the academic community. What we offer You will become a part of a highly talented research group that is working on strategically and globally significant research areas. The support of an experienced and enthusiastic research team where you can share and grow your expertise. Wellness benefit ePassi covering sport, culture, and well-being. Read more about other staff benefits here. Our Buddy Programme and Spouse Network support you and your close ones in settling into Oulu. Development and career options of the big organization. We have an HR Excellence in Research -quality label, which is a recognition awarded by the European Commission for the development of researchers’ working conditions and careers. Work that matters and a workplace that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Read more about working with us. Finland is one of the most livable countries in the world, with a