Ferhat Kaya

The University of Oulu is offering a Doctoral Researcher position in Paleobiology within the Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Humanities, as part of the Deep History of Human Past research program. This multidisciplinary project, funded by the Eudaimonia Institute Spearhead Project, investigates how tectonics, volcanism, and landscape evolution have shaped mammalian and hominin ecosystems during the Late Neogene (12–2.5 million years ago), with a particular focus on the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province (CAVP) in Türkiye. The region is renowned for its exceptional geological and fossil records, providing unique opportunities to study long-term ecological and evolutionary processes. The doctoral researcher will analyze fossil mammal assemblages from Neogene and Quaternary paleontological sites, focusing on both large and small mammals. Key responsibilities include documenting and assessing biological and geological data such as faunal lists, taxonomic composition, biochronology, biostratigraphy, depositional context, lithology, and sedimentology. The researcher will ensure the accuracy and quality of chronological, ecological, and faunal data under the guidance of an international expert team. The main goal is to establish a comprehensive database of Neogene and Quaternary fossil mammals from Türkiye and conduct comparative analyses of regional faunal evolution, with special attention to hominin primates, within defined temporal and spatial frameworks. The position is full-time and fixed-term for three years, starting January 12, 2025 (or as agreed), and offers a competitive salary (approx. 2600–3200 € per month before taxes) and benefits such as wellness support, work-life balance, and integration programs for newcomers. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (Paleobiology, Paleontology, Biology, Geology, or Biological Anthropology), have expertise in mammal paleontology or zoology, experience in independent research, strong English skills, and proficiency in database management. Additional skills in teamwork, scientific publishing, and statistical analysis are valued. The University of Oulu values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. The application deadline is November 12, 2025. Interested candidates should apply online, submitting a cover letter, CV, certificates/diplomas, and referee contacts. For further information, contact Dr Ferhat Kaya at [email protected].

The University of Oulu, a leading multidisciplinary research university in Finland, is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Paleobiology to join the Department of Archaeology within the Faculty of Humanities. This position is part of the Deep History of Human Past research program and is funded by the Eudaimonia Institute Spearhead Project. The successful candidate will work on the project 'Understanding Past Ecosystems to Build a More Resilient Future,' which investigates the impact of tectonics, volcanism, and landscape evolution on mammalian and hominin ecosystems during the Late Neogene (12–2.5 million years ago), with a focus on the Central Anatolian Volcanic Province in Türkiye. The project integrates paleontological, geological, geochemical, and biological data to reconstruct paleoenvironmental and climatic contexts, aiming to provide a deep-time perspective on faunal evolution under changing conditions. Responsibilities include conducting and collaborating on research related to fossil mammals and ecosystem evolution, integrating diverse data types, applying quantitative and modeling approaches (such as paleoclimate and ecological niche modeling), contributing to grant proposals and collaborative publications, mentoring doctoral and master’s students, and participating in departmental activities. The position offers a fixed-term contract for three years, starting on January 12, 2026 (or as agreed), with a competitive salary (approx. 3700-4300 € per month before taxes) and a six-month trial period. The University of Oulu provides a supportive work environment, wellness benefits, and programs to help new staff settle in. Applicants must have a doctoral degree in a relevant field (completed within the last 10 years), a strong background in vertebrate paleontology, paleoecology, or earth system evolution, a good publication record, and fluency in English. Preferred skills include experience in statistical analysis, programming, spatial modeling, database management, and knowledge of mammalian morphology. Applications should be submitted online by November 12, 2025, including a CV, cover letter, list of publications, certificates/diplomas, and contact information for two referees. For further information, contact Ferhat Kaya at [email protected].