About the opportunity
The Finnish Museum of Natural History LUOMUS at the University of Helsinki is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher for the IsoMuseomics project. This interdisciplinary framework combines genomic data from historical museum specimens (up to 200 years old) with stable isotope analyses and environmental data to explore the historical dynamics of at-risk species, specifically using Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) as a model system. The researcher will work under the supervision of Kyung Min Lee and contribute to the establishment of historical climate reference datasets and the interpretation of isotope patterns in ecological contexts.
Salary and benefits
- Starting gross monthly salary of approximately 3,400–3,800 euros, based on level 5 of the Finnish university salary system.
- Preventive occupational health services, general medical care, and sports facilities.
- Assistance for employees from abroad with their transition to work and life in Finland.
- Access to high-quality free schooling (also in English), family benefits, and healthcare in Finland.
Who can apply?
- Must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, ecology, environmental science, or related fields).
- Proficiency in working with and interpreting stable isotope data.
- Ability to conduct independent scholarly work.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills.
- Excellent written and spoken English skills.
- Must reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.
Required documents
- Motivation letter (maximum two pages), including research interests, relevant qualifications, and earliest possible starting date.
- Curriculum vitae (maximum three pages), including a list of relevant publications.
- Contact information of three referees, including their relation to the applicant.
- Copy of doctoral degree certificate.
- All documents must be written in English and submitted as a single PDF named 'lastname_firstname'.
When to apply
- Application deadline: 31 August 2026 (23:59 EEST).
- Preferred starting date: January 2027.
How to apply
- External applicants must submit their application through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the 'Apply Now' button.
- University of Helsinki employees must submit applications through the SAP Fiori portal (https://msap.sap.helsinki.fi).
- Top candidates will be invited for interviews in September 2026 via Zoom.
- Selected candidates will receive a pre-assignment prior to the interview.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Doctoral degree in biology, ecology, or environmental science
- Experience with stable isotope data and interdisciplinary research
- Excellent English communication skills and ability to work independently
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a one-year fixed-term contract, which is relatively short-term
- The position is on-site in Helsinki, requiring relocation to Finland
- You must be prepared to work with historical museum specimens and contribute to climate reference datasets
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This postdoctoral role is an excellent fit for a researcher looking to gain specialized experience in museum-based genomics and isotope analysis. It provides a focused one-year window to contribute to a high-impact project and expand your academic network in Finland.
Our take
Postdoctoral researchers with a background in ecology or environmental science who are looking for a short-term, specialized research project should apply.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
