The postdoctoral researcher will work on Q-GEN (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials), a Business Finland-funded project.

Rapid advances in sequencing are generating vast genomic datasets that are challenging traditional computational methods. The project addresses key bottlenecks in existing and emerging genomic selection models by developing and testing quantum and quantum-inspired approaches. The research will primarily focus on the use of genomic selection for animal and plant breeding.

The successful candidate will join the Genomics and Breeding group at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke). The postdoctoral researcher will work in collaboration with quantum physicists at Aalto University, and use simulated and real quantum-computing environments.

The postdoctoral researcher will be supervised by Research Professor Ismo Strandén and Dr Matti Taskinen at Luke and will collaborate closely with Professor Ilkka Tittonen’s group at Aalto University. The position will be based at a Luke office in either Jokioinen or Helsinki. The work will also include research visits to international collaborators.

• A recently completed (typically no more than 5 years ago) doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as animal breeding, applied mathematics, computer science, genetics, or statistics at the start of the position
• A strong understanding of quantitative genetics in breeding.
• Experience applying genomic selection for large datasets.
• Programming skills, in R and in a compiled language, such as Fortran and C.
• Experience with Unix-based high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
• Record of relevant peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Excellent written and spoken English.

Experience with quantum-computing platforms will be considered an advantage, as is knowledge of statistical methods used in genomic selection. Also Finnish or Swedish language skills are considered an advantage.

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.

Ismo Strandén
Research Professor, available 9.10. and 16.10.
+358 29 532 6553
ismo.stranden@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: Full-time or part-time remote work
• 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
• Additional info about fixed-term employment: Q-Gen (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials) project
• 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 3704,31 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.