Doctoral Researcher / Project Researcher in Animal Ecology (White-tailed Eagle Movement Ecology) University of Turku in Finland

The University of Turku's Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, is offering a fully funded doctoral researcher / project researcher position in Animal Ecology, focusing on the movement ecology of the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla). This three-year position (1.3.2026 – 28.2.2029) is part of a Research Council of Finland-funded project utilizing advanced biologging technology to study how young eagles develop habitat preferences and how these experiences influence their large-scale movement patterns later in life.

The successful candidate will join the Animal Ecology lab at UTU, supervised by Dr. Carina Nebel and Prof. Toni Laaksonen, and become part of a dynamic, collaborative team dedicated to high-quality research and supporting early-career scientists. The role involves planning and conducting fieldwork, analyzing movement and habitat selection data, collaborating with national and international partners, and participating in research dissemination and outreach. There are also opportunities for international mobility and teaching-related tasks (up to 5% of working time), as well as communication activities depending on the candidate's interests.

Applicants must have an MSc in animal ecology and behaviour, wildlife biology, or a related field, completed before the application deadline. Essential skills include motivation, initiative, strong communication abilities, and fluency in English. Experience in wildlife ecology, animal behaviour, fieldwork, statistical methods (R and/or GIS), and handling large datasets (especially GPS data) is highly valued. Candidates must have or obtain study rights for doctoral studies at the University of Turku; if not already held, the position will start as project researcher and the candidate must apply for doctoral study rights in the next available round.

The position offers a competitive salary (approx. 2600-2900 euros/month at the start, determined by the university salary system), a six-month trial period, and comprehensive support for professional development, well-being, and international relocation. The University of Turku is recognized for its commitment to researcher development and working conditions, holding the HR Excellence in Research label. The Department of Biology is a leading research unit, providing a stimulating environment for multidisciplinary research and education.

Applications must be submitted via the online recruitment system by 31 December 2025. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV (with publications), degree certificates, and any other relevant materials. For further information about the position, contact Dr. Carina Nebel ([email protected]). For application process queries, contact HR specialist Kaisa Ketomaki ([email protected]).

This is an excellent opportunity for motivated candidates interested in animal ecology, movement ecology, and advanced data analysis to join a leading Finnish research group and contribute to impactful ecological research.