Doctoral Researcher, Evolutionary Biology

Applications are invited for a 4-year fully funded PhD position to study sexual selection at the University of Jyväskylä in Finnish Lakeland.

DOCTORAL RESEARCHER to study sexual selection

The position starts on 3 January 2022 or as agreed, for a fixed term of four years.

Does selection act differently on the two sexes? Are there universal differences we should expect to see between females and males, based on scientific principles and the most fundamental, definitional properties of the sexes alone? These questions date back to the days of Charles Darwin but are widely debated to this day.

This PhD project will address the above topics using mathematical modelling and literature reviews, supervised by Assistant Professor Jussi Lehtonen (see below for some related publications). The results will help us identify and understand the fundamental evolutionary mechanisms driving sex-specific selection and sexual dimorphism. 

In addition to the Lehtonen lab, the department of Biological and Environmental Science at the University of Jyväskylä hosts expertise in sexual selection and the evolution of sexual traits from both empirical (e.g. Dr Sara Calhim) and theoretical (Dr Lutz Fromhage) perspectives. One of the overall strengths of the department is mathematical modelling in evolution and ecology (Professor Anna Kuparinen, Professor Otso Ovaskainen, Dr Lutz Fromhage, and Assistant Professor Jussi Lehtonen), while there are also ample opportunities to interact with empirical researchers across a diverse range of fields (during regular departmental seminars, journal clubs, and our weekly ‘Darwin Meeting’).

The project and student will also benefit from interactions with international project collaborators, such as Professor Hanna Kokko (University of Zurich) and Professor Geoff Parker (University of Liverpool).  

Qualifications we are looking for

You are the person we are looking for if you have:

• A Master’s degree, or are about to obtain Master’s degree, in evolutionary biology, ecology, mathematics or other relevant fields.
• Curiosity and interest in fundamental scientific questions.
• Mathematical skills and motivation to learn mathematical modelling methods in evolutionary biology are a big asset.
• Familiarity with a mathematical programming language (e.g., Matlab, Mathematica) is preferable but not essential.
• Ability and motivation to work as part of a team, combined with independence and problem-solving skills.

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Doctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines . The MSc degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position.

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish Lake District having excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center with a large student population and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. For more information regarding the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide .

The selected applicant will be paid a standard Finnish PhD salary. The annual salary for a Doctoral Researcher will be approximately 28,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus). With progress of the thesis work, the salary will be revised in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Universities. A trial period of six months will be used in the beginning of the employment.

How to apply

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by 30 November 2021. 

For further details, please contact: Assistant Professor Jussi Lehtonen: [email protected]  

Some publications from the Lehtonen lab related to this project

Lehtonen J, Parker GA. Gamete competition, gamete limitation, and the evolution of the two sexes. Molecular Human Reproduction. 2014;20(12):1161-8.

Lehtonen J, Parker GA, Schärer L. Why anisogamy drives ancestral sex roles. Evolution. 2016;70(5):1129-35.

Lehtonen J, Kokko H. Two roads to two sexes: unifying gamete competition and gamete limitation in a single model of anisogamy evolution. Behav Ecol Sociobiol. 2011;65(3):445-59.

Lehtonen J, Horinouchi Y, Togashi T, Parker GA. Evolution of Anisogamy in Organisms with Parthenogenetic Gametes. The American Naturalist. 2021;198(3):360-78.

The research in the Department focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is an integral part of the University of Jyväskylä's Ylistönrinne Mathematics and Science Research Complex, which includes buildings of chemistry, physics and nanoscience. Ambiotica houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel.

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.