Researcher, Doctoral Researcher, Forest Breeding

Job Description

The task of the researcher is doctoral work according to the project's research plan. The goal is to examine the reproductive system of pine and the high mortality of embryos in early developmental stages.

Key research topics are inbreeding depression and possible self-incompatibility mechanisms that affect embryo viability. We use advanced methods, such as spatial transcriptomics, to investigate the gene expression of seeds in different situations and life stages. Additionally, we compare the development of embryos and vegetative embryos produced by tissue culture (somatic embryogenesis, embryo cloning) and the factors affecting them. The goal is to understand how mutation, purifying selection, and adaptation affect embryo viability, which can improve seed quality and enhance forest regeneration.

The role of the doctoral researcher in partial tasks is determined partly by the doctoral researcher's skills and interests, as there are also post doc researchers working in the project at the University of Helsinki.

The project is implemented in cooperation between the University of Helsinki and the Natural Resources Institute Finland. The doctoral researcher is employed by Luke, but the supervision related to the doctoral degree is from the University of Helsinki (prof. Pyhäjärvi, https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/forest-genomics ) and the selected person applies for the university's doctoral program separately.

The position requires regular presence at the workplace as well as participation in field and laboratory work. Field experiments are conducted in Haapastensyrjä in Lop way and in seed plantations, laboratory work is in Helsinki, and regarding embryo cloning, in Savonlinna.

What we expect from the applicant

We expect the applicant to have a Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., agricultural forestry, biology, genetics).

The position requires the applicant to have familiarity and/or interest in evolutionary biology and molecular genetics, as well as laboratory skills: proficiency in molecular biology methods, microscopy, and plant tissue culture is beneficial for the task. Bioinformatic and computational skills are also considered an advantage.

Due to the collaborative nature of the project, good cooperation and interaction skills are very important. Good written and oral English skills are essential.

The position also requires the ability to participate in measurements and sampling conducted in the field, for which an AB driving license is also beneficial.

What we offer you The well-being of our staff and an innovation- and development-friendly atmosphere at work are particularly important to us. 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 lengthens. Additionally, we offer lunch benefits as well as exercise, culture, or commuting support.

Clarifications

A basic security clearance (Security Clearance Act 726/2014) can be made for the person selected for the position or task 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

Tuija Aronen Group Leader, Luke +358 29 532 4233 tuija.aronen@luke.fi

Tanja Pyhäjärvi Professor, University of Helsinki +358 29 415 7976 tanja.pyhajarvi@helsinki.fi

We hope for applications primarily as electronic via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you can also apply for this job 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 by the end of the application period. Late applications cannot be considered. Applications will not be returned. Based on the education, work experience, and other matters appearing in the application documents, candidates for interviews will be selected and eligibility requirements will also be assessed regarding the expected education.

Natural Resources Institute Finland Registry

Latokartanonkaari 9 00790 Helsinki

Employer

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research and expertise 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 sustainable and competitive business activities based on renewable natural resources. We also support social 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 kindness, curiosity, and the desire to influence the world positively. 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.

Savonlinna, Helsinki

You can work at any of the following locations

Savonlinna Vipusenkuja 6 57200 Savonlinna Open in Google Maps

Helsinki Latokartanonkaari 9 00790 Helsinki Open in Google Maps

Other information about the task

Additional information: A mandatory check is performed on every person selected, which is based on compliance with international and national sanction obligations. In addition, a background check can 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.

Level of the task: 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 practical arrangements 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: Thousand ways to die—the evolutionary and molecular background of pine embryo mortality project

Form of working time: Office working hours

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

Salary information: The position is placed at the Natural Resources Institute Finland's remuneration system complexity level 6, where the task-specific salary component is 3,105.30 euros per month. In addition to the task-specific salary component, a salary component based on personal performance is paid, which can be at most 50% of the task-specific salary component. A new employee's personal salary component is typically 15-20% depending on competence and experience. The applicant may also submit their own salary expectation.