Postdoctoral Researcher in Statistical Ecology and Evolution
Project: Statistical modelling the Evolution of Sex-Specific Differences in Life History and Immunity
Supervisors: Dr. Elina Numminen, Faculty of Science, University of Helsinki, and Dr. Piret Avila Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to develop statistical models and analyses to combine theoretical ecology predictions and empirical data on the evolution of sex-specific differences in immunity and life history traits.
As we intend to conduct interviews also during the application period, we appreciate receiving your application as soon as possible. However, it is possible to apply until February 28, 2026 (at 23:59 UTC +2). The ideal starting date is from March 2026 onwards, and preferably by September 2026.
The position involves developing and fitting models on natural selection shaping sex-specific immune strategies to the related empirical datasets of various kinds and from various sources. For this, novel statistical approaches for assessing hypotheses, comparing models and combining different types of data are developed.
This position is part of the interdisciplinary consortium at the University of Helsinki, Sex Differences in Immunity, led by Dr. Avila, which brings together researchers across evolutionary biology, immunology, genomics, demography, and statistics to bridge evolutionary and mechanistic explanations of sex differences in immunity.
WHAT WE OFFER
• A fully-funded 3-year position at the Department of Mathematics and Statistics of the University of Helsinki (Kumpula campus)
• An opportunity to conduct research as part of a vibrant interdisciplinary consortium, using statistical models to bridge evolutionary theory with immunology, genomics, and demography
• Collaboration across disciplines, with research visits to leading groups in the field
• Funding for attending international conferences to build your scientific network
• A starting salary of 3800-4000 euros/month depending on the appointees’ qualifications and experience
• Access to excellent resources and professional development opportunities
• Occupational health care, flexible working hours, and an opportunity for 6 weeks of paid annual leave
• Support for internationally recruited employees with their transition to work and live in Finland
• Academic community that promotes diversity, international engagement and equality. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions.
YOUR PROFILE
• PhD in statistics, mathematics, biology, evolutionary anthropology or a related field
• Strong background in statistical and mathematical modelling and in the analysis of real-world datasets
• Experience in interdisciplinarity and good collaboration skills
• Ability to develop and pursue independent research questions
• Fluent English skills
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Applications shall be submitted through the University of Helsinki´s recruitment system and include the following documents:
• A CV, including a list of publications
• An application letter describing your suitability for the position and motivation to apply for it (max. 2 pages)
• Contact information of two person who are willing to provide a reference letter upon request
External applicants, please submit your application via the Apply Now button.
Internal applicants, who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment/grant/visitor contract, please submit your application via the Employee login button.
The application deadline is February 28, 2026 (at 23:59 UTC +2).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• About the position: Dr. Elina Numminen, elina.numminen@helsinki.fi
• Recruitment system: recruitment@helsinki.fi
• Department of Mathematics and Statistics: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-science/faculty/mathematics-and-statistics
• Kumpula Campus: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/visit-us/campuses/kumpula-campus
• Why University of Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki
• 10 reasons to work in Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki/why-helsinki
• Why Finland: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki