The research professor (tenure track: associate or full professor) is required to have a doctoral degree on forest sciences, biology or other relevant field of natural sciences. We expect the research professor to have good knowledge and wide understanding on forest diseases, their symptoms and causes (forest pathology), including fungal and oomycete pathogens. In addition, general knowledge and understanding on other biotic as well as abiotic damage agents of forest is expected, including interactions between the different factors (e.g., abiotic conditions triggering diseases; insect vectors transporting fungal diseases). The professor should also have strong methodological skills on mycological, molecular and genetic techniques. A high-quality scientific publication record in the discipline is essential.

The position will require excellent problem solving, oral and written communication in English, co-operation and scientific leadership skills including researcher mentoring, and the capacity for collaboration and knowledge exchange with different stakeholders, including forest management officials and conservation organisations. The research professor is required to have shown ability to create national and international collaborations and networks and be actively engaged in them. In addition, shown ability to create relevant new research questions and turn them to successful research projects is required. The candidate should have the capacity and credentials to apply for research funding and have a strong track record in leading and managing international research projects. Capacity to build attractive research environments is also required.

We consider as an advantage i) modelling skills related to forest damages, ii) interest in developing innovations in the control of forest diseases and iii) knowledge on microbes affecting forest health, iv) understanding on how changing climatic conditions may interact with tree health and diseases.

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.

Sirpa Thessler
Vice President, Natural Resources
+358 29 532 6582
sirpa.thessler@luke.fi
Antti Asikainen
Executive Vice President, Research
+358 29 532 3250
antti.asikainen@luke.fi

Primarily, we request applicants to submit their applications electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you can also apply for this job by delivering your application to the Registry Office’s postal address. Both the application and the envelope must feature the ID number of the position applied for. The letter must be delivered by the end of the application period.

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organisation working to promote bioeconomy and sustainable use of natural resources. We provide solutions and services to our customers based on best available scientific knowledge. Our research results and services generate added value and sustainability as well as scientific evidence to support decision making. We carry out research for example on forestry, agriculture, food, game, and fisheries, and perform also statutory services.

Being open-minded and curious and having a strong will to leave a positive mark to the world binds Luke people together. Together we build a positive working culture where each other’s work is highly respected. In Luke, the work assignments are versatile and employees can influence the content of their work. We work in a mobile work culture which gives you the possibility to work from wherever in Finland it suits you the best. Luke offers a multidisciplinary international research environment with unique research infrastructures, experimental sites and well-equipped laboratories.

Luke employs around 50 top research professors in different fields. Luke’s Professorship Policy ensures transparency, predictability and international comparability in professor recruitments. For new employees coming from abroad Luke offers relocation packages which provide remarkable help in moving to and settling in Finland. An important asset for research at Luke is the multidisciplinary, innovative and ambitious researcher community and the availability of a wide range of technical staff. Our Intercultural Community offers possibilities to share experiences and competence, and supports the development of internationality in Luke.

Location
Helsinki, Joensuu, Oulu, Rovaniemi

Other information related to the task