The project aims to study adaptability of Scots pine and to enhance climate resilience via tree breeding and optimal deployment.

The PhD researcher to be hired is expected to complete PhD thesis according to the ClimatePine project plan. The research topics include genetic variation in growth rhythm and stress resilience of Scots pine, phenotypic plasticity, as well as optimal deployment of forest reproductive materials in changing climate. Further, the project aims to examine realized genetic gains, i.e. how stands established with improved materials have grown and developed at different parts of the country.

Different types of research materials and methods will be utilized, including e.g. field trial measurements, geospatial data, laboratory experiments, and genomic data. The role of the PhD researcher in project tasks and the contents of the thesis will be adjusted according to the person’s skills and interests.

The project will be conducted in collaboration among Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Metsähallitus Forestry Ltd. and University of Helsinki. The PhD researcher will be hired by Luke, and during the project they will visit Metsähallitus Foresty Ltd. for appr. 6 months. University of Helsinki (prof. Pyhäjärvi, https://www.helsinki.fi/en/researchgroups/forest-genomics ) will provide supervision for getting doctoral degree, but the person to be hired needs to apply separately to doctoral program of the university.

The tasks of the PhD researcher require presence on the Luke location (Helsinki or Oulu) and also participation to field and laboratory work.

We expect applicants to have a masters’ degree in suitable field of science, e.g. agriculture and forestry, biology, statistics.

Knowhow and /or interest in quantitative genetics, tree breeding and statistical methodology, as well as understanding of using genomic tools in breeding and evolutionary biology is required. Further, we expect the applicant to demonstrate a clear interest in utilising this know‑how for the benefit of practical silviculture.

Due to collaborative nature of the ClimatePine project, the applicant should have good co-operation and communication skills. In addition of good English (written and oral) skills, also knowing Finnish is an essential strength: part of the databases to be used are in Finnish, and collaboration with stakeholders is part of the project.

The applicant is expected to partipate to field measurements and sampling, and for that driving license (AB) would be useful.

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.

Katri Kärkkäinen
Research professor
+358 29 532 3767
katri.karkkainen@luke.fi

Tuija Aronen
Group Manager, available until 3.7.
+358 29 523 4233
tuija.aronen@luke.fi

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.

• 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.