Doctoral Researcher in the MSCA Cofund DP-FOBI Doctoral Programme, Forest Sciences University of Eastern Finland in Finland

The University of Eastern Finland is offering a four-year Doctoral Researcher position within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions COFUND Doctoral Programme for Advancing Forest-Based Bioeconomy (DP-FOBI). Based at the Joensuu campus, this opportunity focuses on European landscape-level assessment and modelling of forest plantations’ growth dynamics and ecosystem services. The research project aims to develop biometric modelling and data-mining approaches to integrate and harmonise existing European forestry datasets, with a special emphasis on plantation forests and intensively managed stands. Key research areas include tree species identification, stand structure, growth and yield patterns, and management regimes across diverse European regions.

Applicants will work with datasets from national forest inventories, plantation mapping products, forest management records, and remote sensing layers to evaluate plantation forest occurrence, growth, management, and exposure to disturbances such as drought, wind, fire, pests, and diseases. The expected outcomes are harmonised datasets, growth and yield modelling workflows, spatial analyses, and management-planning tools to support plantation forestry, biomass production, climate adaptation, and risk-informed forest management in Europe. The thesis will contribute to forest biometrics, plantation forestry, forest data integration, and spatial decision support, providing practical methods for researchers, forest managers, and policy actors to compare plantation systems and assess their role in future European bioeconomy strategies.

The position offers supportive supervision by experienced researchers, access to comprehensive doctoral training and DP-FOBI activities (workshops, summer schools, research visits, and secondments), and opportunities to collaborate within a vibrant interdisciplinary network. Researchers will benefit from close cooperation with industry and societal partners, enhancing the real-world impact of their research. UEF provides extensive occupational health care, staff training, campus restaurant discounts, access to the national healthcare system, and affordable childcare and school services.

The employment contract is for four years, with a total working time of 1,612 hours per year and a four-month probationary period. The salary follows the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions system, including a living allowance (EUR 3,200/month), mobility allowance (EUR 87/month), family allowance (EUR 300/month for eligible researchers), paid leave, holiday bonus, travel allowance (EUR 1,500/year), additional travel allowance (EUR 10,500 total), research costs (EUR 6,000 total), and special needs allowance/support if required.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in forest sciences, environmental sciences, applied ecology, geoinformatics and modelling, or a closely related field. They must not have a doctoral degree at the time of the call deadline and must meet the MSCA mobility rule (less than 12 months in Finland during the past 3 years). Language skills requirements for the Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology at UEF must be fulfilled. Experience with forest inventory data, growth and yield modelling, plantation forestry, remote sensing, or spatial analysis is expected. Strong quantitative skills, proficiency in R, GIS software, and statistical modelling are required. Experience with spatial databases, Python, or Google Earth Engine, and knowledge of mixed models, machine learning, forest inventory methods, forest management planning, or disturbance ecology are advantageous. Applicants should be able to work independently, document analytical workflows clearly, and collaborate effectively with international partners. Proof of English proficiency is required if not evident from academic credentials.

To apply, submit all application materials in English via the UEF electronic recruitment system by 10 August 2026. Required documents include a certified copy of the Master’s degree diploma and transcript, CV, electronic copy and summary of Master’s thesis, Ethics Self-Assessment form, motivational letter, and proof of English proficiency. Use the provided application templates from the DP-FOBI website. Applications not adhering to format or language requirements will not be considered. The selection process includes eligibility and ethics check, external review, interviews, final selection decision, and appointment. Applications will be evaluated by external, independent experts representing relevant DP-FOBI research areas, following strict confidentiality protocols.

For further information, contact Project Manager Paula Inkeroinen ([email protected]) or [email protected]. Learn more about the DP-FOBI programme, the University of Eastern Finland, and living in Finland at the DP-FOBI website and UEF’s official site. This is an excellent opportunity to join an international, creative, and inclusive academic community in Finland, renowned for its high quality of life, modern technology, and superb education system.