Deadline for applications 23.9.2026 at 16:00
Do you have good mathematical skills and interest in ecological modeling? We are looking for a motivated doctoral researcher for the Academy of Finland’s 4-year DECODE project, modeling ecological interactions in soil organic carbon dynamics.
The doctoral candidate will contribute to the Academy of Finland funded DECODE project (Decoding ecosystem carbon and organic matter dynamics as an ecosystem property), investigating how the temperature sensitivity of soil organic carbon decomposition varies with organic matter quality and microbial community composition in European soils. The results will improve climate models by enabling more accurate estimates of future soil CO₂ emissions and associated feedback mechanisms.
The candidate will develop a Bayesian data assimilation framework built around the Q-model using large datasets (e.g. Holisoils, LUCAS, ICP Forests) and scaling the results up to European level. The tasks involve integrating diverse data sources, model development, using CSC’s supercomputing infrastructure, and publishing results in peer-reviewed scientific journals under the supervision of the project’s principal investigator.
The position is located in Luke in Helsinki within an international research team, while doctoral studies will be completed through the University of Tampere. The project includes collaboration with several European research organizations and a research visit to a partner institution, the University of Oslo. The position offers an opportunity to conduct multidisciplinary, cutting-edge research at the intersection of terrestrial ecology and mathematics, providing strong career prospects in academia, climate risk assessment and industry.
The position will start on 1.12.2026, or as agreed.
Please submit your application and CV in English.
We are looking for a highly motivated doctoral candidate with good mathematical skills, a curious mind, and the ability to apply the expertise to solving challenging ecological problems through ecological modeling. Applicants must hold a higher university degree in a
relevant field (e.g. applied mathematics, statistics, physics, computational science, environmental science, agriculture, ecology, microbiology). Applicants are expected to have an interest and willingness to pursue an article-based doctoral dissertation.
The applicant should have good mathematical skills and be capable of working with linear and partial differential equation systems. Experience with Bayesian inference, MCMC methods, high performance computing or spatial modelling is seen as an asset. The candidate should have good programming skills (e.g., R, Python, or others) and be able to read, write, and debug code independently. Knowledge of soil science is not required, but a degree in a relevant field or otherwise demonstrated strong expertise in soil science, combined with the required mathematical skills, is considered an asset.
Good communication skills and the ability to work as a part of a multidisciplinary international research team as well as independently is required. A successful candidate has good spoken and written skills in English. Previous experience with contributing to scientific publications can be seen as an asset.
The well-being of our people and a positive approach towards innovation and development are particularly important to us. Our mobile work model allows you to work in Finland in the location most appropriate for your work. In addition, we provide flexible hours, and as your employment with us continues, long vacations. We offer lunch benefits, as well as sports, culture, or commuting support.
The person selected for the position might need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More detailed information on the procedure and the subject's rights is available at www.supo.fi.
Lorenzo Menichetti
Research Scientist
lorenzo.menichetti@luke.fi
+358 295 322 942
Heli Miettinen
Group Manager
heli.miettinen@luke.fi
+358 295 322 734
We primarily request that applications be submitted electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you may also apply for this position by submitting your application to the registry office’s postal address. The ID number of the position applied for must be clearly stated both in the application and on the envelope. The application must be received by the end of the application period. Late applications will not be considered. Application documents will not be returned. Based on the information provided in the application documents, including education, work experience, and other relevant factors, applicants will be selected for interviews. Eligibility requirements will also be assessed with regard to the expected qualification.
The Registry of Natural Resources Institute Finland
Latokartanonkaari 9
00790 Helsinki, Finland
Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organisation that builds sustainable future and well-being from renewable natural resources. We create knowledge-based solutions and services for our customers and add value to a sustainable and competitive business based on renewable natural resources. We also support public policy making related to natural resources and the resource economy.
Luke's tasks and organisation are regulated in the Act on the Natural Resources Institute Finland (561/2014). Luke is operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland.
Being open-minded, curious, and having a strong will to make a positive impact in the world bind Luke people together. We value our diverse working community consisting of people with different backgrounds and cultures and promote equality. On this basis, we are building a cheerful and respectful culture in which everyone’s input is appreciated. Sustainability is included in all our operations.
Helsinki
You can work at one of our following locations
Latokartanonkaari 9
00790 Helsinki
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- More information: Each person selected will undergo a sanctions check based on compliance with international and national sanctions obligations. In addition, a background check may be carried out on the selected person to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the person if they do not have Finnish citizenship.
- Level of position: Specialists
- Remote work: Possibility to work remotely
- Description of the remote work: Mobile work is used at Luke. This means that work is performed where it suits best. Mobile work is only possible within Finland, and the practices of mobile work are agreed with the supervisor. We also meet regularly face-to-face.
- Reason for fixed-term employment: Nature of work
- Working time format: Office working hours
- Trial period: The trial period is half the duration of the employment contract, but not exceeding six (6) months.
- Remuneration information: The position is at complexity level 6 in Luke's salary system and the position specific salary is EUR 3014,85 per month. In addition, a salary component based on personal performance will be paid (max. 50% of the position specific salary). A new employee's personal performance component depends on competence and experience and generally falls in the range of 15-20 %. The applicant may also present a separate salary request.