Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecological Networks and Biodiversity Conservation

Tiivistelmä työpaikkailmoituksesta: The University of Helsinki seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher in ecological networks and biodiversity conservation at the Viikki Campus to join the ANEW project starting 1 January 2027 for 24 months. The postdoctoral researcher will lead research on ecological network novelty and its effects on ecosystem functioning by combining large-scale datasets, species traits, network analyses, quantitative modelling, and coordinating field resurveys and international field campaigns. Applicants must hold a PhD before the start date and have strong quantitative (R) skills, experience in ecological networks or related fields, fieldwork and species identification skills, and a relevant publication record. The gross monthly salary is approximately €3700–€4200 and applications must be submitted by 30 September 2026. Tämä tiivistelmä on luotu tekoälyn avulla. Postdoctoral Researcher in Ecological Networks and Biodiversity Conservation The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences at the University of Helsinki invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in ecological networks and biodiversity conservation. The work will be based at the Viikki Campus in Helsinki, Finland. The postdoctoral researcher will join the research 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. ANEW aims to understand how novel ecological interactions emerge under global change, how they affect ecosystem functioning, and how this knowledge can improve conservation of species interactions. The ANEW team consists of the PI, a postdoctoral researcher, a doctoral researcher, and a research assistant. The project also involves collaboration with Professors Heini Kujala (University of Helsinki, Finland) and Matthias Schleuning (Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Germany). Together, the team combines expertise in ecological networks, spatial ecology, conservation science, and biodiversity informatics. The position is funded for 24 months and is available from 1st January 2027 , or as agreed. About the position Understanding how ecosystems respond to global change is one of the central challenges in ecology. This postdoctoral project investigates how ecological novelty influences ecosystem functioning and the ecological and environmental processes driving the emergence of novel interactions. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing ecological network theory while developing a mechanistic understanding of how changing species interactions influence biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The postdoctoral researcher will play a leading scientific role within ANEW. They will lead research on the mechanisms underlying ecological network novelty and its consequences for ecosystem functioning by combining large-scale ecological datasets, species trait data, ecological network analyses, and quantitative modelling. The postdoctoral researcher will also coordinate and lead field resurveys of historical seed dispersal networks in Finland and other European countries and contribute to planning and implementing international field campaigns. Beyond their own research, the postdoctoral researcher will have an active role in shaping the scientific direction of the project by mentoring the doctoral researcher and research assistant and leading collaborative scientific publications. The position therefore offers excellent opportunities to gain leadership experience while building an independent research profile. The Postdoctoral Researcher will also have opportunities to collaborate with international researchers and present research at international conferences. Selection criteria We are looking for a highly motivated and collaborative researcher with a strong background in ecology and quantitative analyses, who is excited to contribute to an ambitious international research project. The successful applicant must have: A PhD (completed before the start of employment) in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, biology, environmental sciences, or another relevant field Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including experience handling and analyzing ecological or environmental data (in R) Research experience in ecological networks, community ecology, functional ecology, biodiversity conservation, global change ecology, or another closely related research area Experience in conducting ecological fieldwork, including bird and/or plant identification skills A record of publishing peer-reviewed scientific research appropriate to career stage Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English The following qualifications are considered an advantage: Experience working with large biodiversity datasets Experience with seed dispersal ecology, pla