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

Tiivistelmä työpaikkailmoituksesta: Doctoral Researcher position at the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki (Viikki Campus) in the ANEW project, available from 15 October 2026. The researcher will study how plant–seed disperser networks reorganize under global change across Europe using large ecological and trait datasets, spatial and quantitative analyses, and field resurveys to produce an article‑based PhD thesis. Applicants must have a Master’s degree before the start and demonstrable skills in ecological data handling, R and spatial datasets, excellent English writing, and strong motivation to complete a doctoral degree. The position is funded for up to 47 months, has a starting gross salary of approximately €2600/month, includes about 5% teaching duties, and applications are due by 31 August 2026. Tämä tiivistelmä on luotu tekoälyn avulla. 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 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. If the candidate does not already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki, it must be applied for separately ( www.helsinki.fi/en/res