Craig Primmer’s research group at the University of Helsinki (http://www.helsinki.fi/evolution-conservation-and-genomics) in close collaboration with the Tana salmon management group (luke.fi/tana_research_group) is looking for

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER position genetic mixed stock assessment in salmon (1 year, extension possible)

The overall aim of the project is to provide accurate estimates of catch rate for salmon sub-populations in the Tana river system via genetic mixed-stock analysis so the data can be used as one component of the information used to manage fishing in the system. The main duties of the position are to carry out genetic mixed-stock analysis of Tana salmon fishery samples, to provide reports to the management group in a timely manner as well as to update the genetic baseline and SNP panels used for the analyses. Other related conservation genetic projects may also be carried out if funding is obtained.

Suitable candidate will ideally have a strong background in population and conservation genetics (in any species). Demonstrated experience with both ‘wet lab’ population genetic techniques as well as downstream bioinformatics and data analysis skills is also an advantage. An ability to communicate conservation genetic results to managers is also required. The working language of both Primmer’s research group and Tana management group is English, but due to the nature of the management in question, an ability to communicate in Finnish and/or a Scandinavian language is advantageous.

The position is available from 15.3.2021 initially until 14.4.2022, but future extensions are possible depending on continuation of funding for the GSI work (which is currently decided on an annual basis) and/or obtaining additional management-related funding. Informal inquires should be addressed to Academy professor Craig Primmer (craig.primmer@helsinki.fi).

The salary will be based on level 5 of the demands level chart for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal performance with the overall starting salary amounting to c. 3150-3650 EUR per month, depending on the previous relevant research experience of the candidate. A six-month trial period will be applied.

Applications should include a (max. 1 page) letter of motivation, a CV, including contact details of at least two referees and publication list.

Applications must be submitted through the University's electronic recruitment system via the link “Apply for the position” below. Applicants who are employees of the University of Helsinki must submit their application via the SAP HR portal.The deadline for applications is 3.3.2021.

Finland is a member of the EU, has high quality free schooling (also in English), very affordable childcare, generous family benefits and healthcare, and was recently ranked as the best country in the world for expat families and in the world’s top ten most livable cities. The University of Helsinki is a top 100 ranked university in most ranking lists, and is currently investing heavily in life sciences research (see https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-institute-of-life-science).

Relevant publications

• Erkinaro, et al. (2019). Life history variation across four decades in a diverse population complex of Atlantic salmon in a large subarctic river. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 76(1), 42–55.
• Pritchard et al. (2018). Genomic signatures of fine-scale local selection in Atlantic salmon suggest involvement of sexual maturation, energy homeostasis and immune defence-related genes. Molecular Ecology, 27(11), 2560–2575.
• Vähä et al. (2016). Genetic stock identification of Atlantic salmon and its evaluation in a large population complex. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 12, 1–12.

Due date

03.03.2021 23:59 EET