Researcher, postdoc, genomic selection

Job description

A researcher, postdoc, will work in the Business Finland-funded Q-GEN project (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials).

The rapid development of sequencing methods produces vast genomic datasets that challenge traditional computational methods. The project aims to solve the computational challenges of current and future genomic selection models by utilizing quantum computers. The main focus of the research is the use of genomic selection in animal and plant breeding.

The selected researcher will join the animal genetics and genomics research group at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke). Research is conducted in collaboration with quantum physics researchers from Aalto University, utilizing both simulated and real quantum computing environments.

The researcher's supervisors will be research professor Ismo Strandén and researcher Matti Taskinen (Luke) in close cooperation with Ilkka Tittonen's research group (Aalto University). The workplace is at Luke's Jokioinen or Helsinki locations. The position includes research visits to international collaborators.

What we expect from the applicant

• A recently completed doctoral degree (typically no more than 5 years ago) in a relevant field, such as genetics, animal breeding, applied mathematics, computer science, or statistics at the start of the employment • Strong expertise in quantitative genetics in the field of breeding • Experience in applying genomic selection to large datasets • Programming skills in R and in a compilable programming language, such as Fortran or C • Experience with Unix-based high-performance computing (HPC) environments • Peer-reviewed scientific publications in the field • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research group • Excellent oral and written English skills

Experience with quantum computing platforms is considered an advantage, as is knowledge of statistical methods used in genomic selection, as well as proficiency in Finnish or Swedish.

What we offer you: For us, the well-being of our staff and an innovation- and development-friendly atmosphere at work are particularly important. We work multi-locally and, as far as possible, we encourage you to work in Finland where it suits you best, without forgetting community. We offer flexibility in working hours, long working hour flexibilities, and long holidays as your employment continues. Additionally, we offer a lunch benefit as well as support for exercise, culture, or commuting.

Clarifications

A basic security clearance (Security Clearance Act 726/2014) may be conducted on the person selected for the position with the applicant's consent. More detailed information on the procedure and the rights of the subject of the clearance can be found at www.supo.fi.

Our contact information

Ismo Strandén Research Professor, available on 9.10. and 16.10. +358 29 532 6553 ismo.stranden@luke.fi

We hope for applications primarily electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you can also apply for this position by delivering your application to the registry's postal address. Both in the application and on the envelope, the ID number of the position being applied for must be mentioned. The letter must arrive before the application deadline. Late applications cannot be considered. Applications will not be returned. Based on the education, work experience, and other aspects appearing in the application documents, candidates will be selected for interviews, and eligibility requirements will also be verified regarding the expected education.

Natural Resources Institute Finland Registry

Latokartanonkaari 9 00790 Helsinki

Employer

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research and expert organization that builds well-being and a sustainable future from renewable natural resources. We produce knowledge-based solution models and services for our customers as well as added value for a sustainable and competitive industry based on renewable natural resources. We also support societal decision-making related to natural resources and the natural resource economy.

The field of activity, tasks, and organization of Luke are regulated in the Act on the Natural Resources Institute Finland (561/2014). We operate in the field of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

We "lukelaiset" are united by friendliness, curiosity, and a desire to positively influence the world. We value our diverse work community, built from different backgrounds and cultures, and promote equality. Together, we build a good-natured and respectful culture where everyone's work is valued. Responsibility runs through all our activities.

Jokioinen, Helsinki

You can work at any of our following locations:

Jokioinen Tietotie 4 31600 Jokioinen Open in Google Maps

Helsinki Latokartanonkaari 9 00790 Helsinki Open in Google Maps

Other information about the position

Additional information: A mandatory sanction check will be performed on every person selected, based on compliance with international and national sanction obligations. Additionally, a background check may be performed on the selected person to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the person, if the person does not have Finnish citizenship.

Position level: Expert level

Remote work: Full-time or partial remote work

Description of remote work: At Luke, work is done multi-locally, meaning work is done where it is most appropriate. Multi-local work is only possible in Finland, and practices are agreed upon with the supervisor. We also meet each other regularly in person.

Basis for fixed-term: Nature of the work

Additional information on fixed-term: Q-Gen (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials) project

Working hours: Office working hours

Probationary period: The probationary period is half the duration of the employment, but at most six (6) months.

Salary information: The position is placed at the Natural Resources Institute Finland's remuneration system complexity level 8, where the position-specific salary component is 3704.31 euros per month. In addition to the position-specific salary component, a salary component based on personal performance is paid, which can be at most 50% of the position-specific salary component. A new employee's personal salary component is typically 15-20% depending on competence and experience. The applicant may also present their own salary expectation.