Doctoral Researcher in Plant Biodiversity Change Mechanisms
Explore how spatial context, dispersal, and biotic interactions shape plant biodiversity under global change in a 3-year PhD project.
Best for:Best for plant ecologists with a strong background in experimental research, R-based statistical analysis, and fieldwork experience seeking a multidisciplinary PhD in biodiversity science.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Oulu focuses on uncovering the mechanisms behind plant biodiversity changes in response to global factors like climate warming and nutrient enrichment. Under the supervision of Prof. Anu Eskelinen’s research group, the successful candidate will conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory work, analyze existing and new data, and publish findings in high-impact journals. The project integrates experimental research, statistical analysis (using R), and international collaboration with partners in Finland and the USA. The role also includes teaching at the BSc/MSc level and co-supervising master’s students, offering a dynamic environment for interdisciplinary research in ecology and genetics.
What you'll do
- Conduct field, greenhouse, and laboratory research to collect new data on plant communities and measure plant traits.
- Analyze existing and new research data from long-term field experiments using statistical methods in R.
- Write and publish 2–3 manuscripts in high-quality international peer-reviewed journals under supervision.
- Present research findings at national and international conferences and workshops as relevant.
- Teach at BSc/MSc level and co-supervise master’s students and interns.
- Collaborate with international research teams, including partners at the University of Helsinki and University of California, Davis.
- Participate actively in the research group’s collaborative and interdisciplinary work environment.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science (MSc) in plant community ecology, plant biology, genetics, evolutionary biology, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research, teaching, and international collaboration
Instruction: English
- Proven experience in experimental plant ecology research
- Strong proficiency in statistical analysis using R
- Fieldwork experience, including plant community data collection and grassland plant identification
- Ability to travel and conduct research in diverse environments (e.g., temperate, tundra ecosystems)
- Excellent written and spoken English proficiency
- Familiarity with global change research and trait-based plant ecology concepts
- No nationality restrictions; open to international applicants
- No age limit specified
- No prior experience caps; open to all applicants with relevant qualifications
- Must hold or be close to completing an MSc degree in a relevant field
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-15 (Europe/Helsinki)
Applicants must submit their application through the University of Oulu’s recruitment system by November 15, 2026. The application must include a motivation letter (max. 2 pages), CV following Finnish guidelines, a list of publications (if applicable), and a copy of the relevant degree certificate or a description of the expected completion date if the degree is not yet finalized.
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
- CV following Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity guidelines
- List of publications (if applicable)
- Copy of relevant degree certificate or expected completion date description
Contact
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