The project focuses on two ascomycete fungi, Diplodia sapinea and Gremmeniella abietina, serving as model systems to examine pathogen growth, virulence, and underlying molecular mechanisms, as well as exploring the role of mycoviruses in shaping pathogen behavior. Laboratory experiments under controlled conditions will be used to generate high-quality data, with particular emphasis on characterizing fungal traits.

The work includes planning and executing controlled inoculation studies (using spores), DNA extractions, and analysis of high-throughput sequencing (ITS2) data. In the position you are required to annotate new genome of Diplodia sapinea, perform RNA extractions from Scots pine shoots, and conduct transcriptomic analyses. The position also involves participation in mycovirus studies, including mycovirus screening.

In addition, the position includes interpretation of results and writing scientific articles. The applicant is expected to travel for a research visit to South Africa.

• A PhD in Forest Pathology or a closely related field (the dissertation must be successfully defended before 31 December 2026).
• Demonstrated research experience in forest pathology, fungal ecology, and/or tree–pathogen interactions.
• Experience with fungal culturing, inoculation experiments, and forest tree pathosystems are required.
• Demonstrated experience in RNA-seq analysis or fungal genomics.
• Identification of Diplodia tip blight and Scleroderris canker symptoms in field conditions is considered an advantage.
• Interest or experience in virology, particularly mycoviruses, is beneficial but not required.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Good written and oral communication skills in English.

The following will be considered an asset for the applicant:
• Experience in identifying symptoms of Diplodia sapinea (Sphaeropsis blight) and Gremmeniella abietina (Gremmeniella disease) under field conditions is considered an advantage.
• Interest in virology or experience in it, particularly with mycoviruses, is considered an advantage, but is not required.

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.

Eeva Terhonen
Principal Scientist, available between 13.-17.7.
+358 29 532 2484
eeva.terhonen@luke.fi

Riikka Linnakoski
Group Manager, available after 27.7.
+358 29 532 2289
riikka.linnakoski@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: Please add a motivation letter (1-2 pages), CV (3 pages following TENK template, (https://tenk.fi/en/advice-and-materials/template-researchers-curriculum-vitae) and a publication list.
  
  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 8 in Luke's salary system and the position specific salary is EUR 3596,42 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.