Researcher in Biology
University of Helsinki
Finland

Supervisor: Dr. Piret Avila
Faculty: Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences
University: University of Helsinki
Unit: Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences
Sub-unit: Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme
Position ID: 4621

Position Overview

The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Academy Research Fellow Dr. Piret Avila are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to develop theoretical work on the evolution of sex-specific differences in immunity and life history traits.

Applications are accepted immediately and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The ideal starting date is February/March 2026, but a later start is possible.

This is a fully funded three-year position based at the Viikki campus, University of Helsinki.

Research Focus

The position involves developing mathematical models to understand how natural selection shapes sex-specific immune strategies. The goal is to generate quantitative predictions that can be tested against empirical data from diverse ecological contexts.

The research will use methods from theoretical evolutionary biology, including:

• Optimal control theory

• Life history modelling

• Adaptive dynamics

• Population genetics

This position is part of the interdisciplinary consortium Sex Differences in Immunity at the University of Helsinki, led by Dr. Avila. The consortium brings together researchers across evolutionary biology, immunology, genomics, demography, and statistics to bridge evolutionary and mechanistic explanations of sex differences in immunity.

What We Offer

• Starting salary for postdoctoral researchers of approximately €3,625 per month

• A fully funded three-year position at the University of Helsinki (Viikki campus)

• Opportunity to conduct research within a vibrant interdisciplinary consortium

• Collaboration across disciplines, including research visits to leading international groups

• Funding for attending international conferences

• Access to excellent research resources and professional development opportunities

The University of Helsinki provides comprehensive employee benefits, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension funds, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development.
More information: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers

Your Profile

Applicants should have:

• A PhD in biology, mathematics, or a related field

• A strong background in mathematical or computational modelling

• Ability to develop and pursue independent research questions

• Interest in or experience with interdisciplinary research (an advantage)

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

• Motivation letter (maximum 1 page), including a short description of research interests and background relevant to the position

• Curriculum vitae (maximum 3 pages)

• Publication list

• Contact information for two persons willing to provide a reference letter upon request

External applicants should apply via the University of Helsinki Recruitment System using the Apply Now button.

Applicants with a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment, grant researcher, or visiting researcher/professor contract at the University of Helsinki should apply using the Employee Login button.

Application Deadlines

• Closing date stated in advertisement: 31 August 2025 at 23:59 EEST

• Recruitment system due date: 31 January 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Helsinki time)

Applications will be processed during the application period, and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is identified.

Further Information

• About the position:
  Academy Research Fellow Piret Avila
  Email: piret.avila@helsinki.fi

• Recruitment system:
  Email: rekrytointi@helsinki.fi

• Viikki Campus:
  https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/campuses/viikki-campus

• Support for international staff:
  https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/welcome
  https://ihhelsinki.fi

• Why choose the University of Helsinki:
  https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki

• Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences:
  https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-biological-and-environmental-sciences

Working for the World

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We are defined by our multidisciplinary approach and guided by our values of truth, bildung, freedom, and inclusivity.

Work for the future – work for the world.

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