Doctoral Researcher or Postdoctoral Researcher in Epigenomics of forest tree adaptation

The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Dr. James Ord invite applications for the position of:

Doctoral Researcher or Postdoctoral Researcher in Epigenomics of forest tree adaptation

The doctoral researcher position is funded for a period of 3.5 years, with a possibility for an extension to 4 years, while the postdoctoral position is a fixed-term 2-year position with possibility of extension. A trial period of 6 months will be applied. Starting date for the position is ideally by March 2026 the latest or by mutual agreement.

Genetic variation is essential for species to adapt to long term environmental changes. When environmental change is rapid, however, genetic variation may be insufficient on its own. Another layer of variation is the epigenome, e.g. DNA methylation (DNAme), which can change rapidly and may therefore be important for natural populations to respond to rapid changes. This may be especially so for trees which, as sedentary organisms, cannot escape from the wide-ranging environmental stresses they may face in a single lifetime. As anthropogenic climate change brings more extreme and variable conditions, the capacity of trees to cope with these challenges via the epigenome is a pressing question. We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join an exciting project investigating the role of DNAme in adaptation of birch trees (Betula pendula) to environmental stress, including how DNAme potentially drives trait variation and how it responds to the environment. We will use machine learning tools to perform high-throughput phenotyping of birch leaves – specifically stomatal traits – and link these traits to epigenomic variation profiled via whole genome bisulfite sequencing. The candidate will also have the opportunity to explore advanced pangenome-based methods to probe the influence of genome structural variation on the molecular responses to drought stress.

The ideal candidate is enthusiastic and can think creatively, independently and critically in their approach scientific challenges. Candidate for the doctoral researcher position must successfully obtain the right to pursue a Ph.D. at the University of Helsinki within the first 6 months of employment. The postdoctoral candidate should have a doctoral degree in molecular biology, genomics, evolutionary biology or a related field while the doctoral candidate should have a master’s degree in a related field and a keen interest in (epi)genomics and environmental adaptation. At least some prior experience in the processing and analysis of genomic data will be highly beneficial. The successful candidate will be affiliated with the Academy of Finland Centre of Excellence in Tree Biology (TreeBio) and as such will join a vibrant international team at one of the world’s leading institutes for plant biology and genomic research.

The salary is defined in accordance with the University’s salary system for teaching and research personnel, composed of task specific and personal performance components. The University offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, high-quality sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.

How to apply

The application must include the following attachments as a single PDF file (in English):

• A cover letter describing shortly your background and motivation to apply to this position (max. 1 page).
• Curriculum Vitae with a list of publications (if any).
• Names and contact information of two referees who are willing to provide reference letters upon request

Submit your application through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the “Apply now" link below. Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) please submit your applications through the SAPFiori portal (https://msap.sap.helsinki.fi/).

The deadline for submitting the application is 7th of November 2025. For more information on the position,please contact James Ord (james.ord@helsinki.fi).