Postdoctoral Researcher in Evolutionary Demography
The University of Turku's Faculty of Science is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in Evolutionary Demography for a fixed-term contract at the Department of Biology, starting 1 March 2026 and ending 31 December 2028. This position is part of the Human Diversity Centre of Excellence research consortium, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The consortium integrates world-leading research in Evolutionary Language Sciences, Archaeogenomics, Evolutionary Demography, and Digital Linguistics/Natural Language Processing to explore how human contacts, environments, and communication networks have shaped and continue to shape human diversity.
The postdoctoral researcher will focus on unraveling how ecological and social factors have influenced past human contacts, specifically migration rates between local communities, and how these factors affect the spread of infectious diseases. The research utilizes unique, national-level digitalized data on Finnish migrations and death causes from the 19th century, alongside a custom travel effort model across historic Finnish landscapes. Key tasks include analyzing migration data to identify source and sink areas, examining time trends in population movements, linking these movements to travel effort models, and quantifying the relationship between migration trends and the spread of diseases such as smallpox and measles.
The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Professor Virpi Lummaa in LummaaLab and collaborate closely with other research groups within the Human Diversity consortium. The role involves combining diverse datasets, overseeing the production and curation of new data, and conducting multidisciplinary research. The Department of Biology is renowned for its productivity and expertise in biological evolution, offering a vibrant academic environment with access to high-quality research infrastructures and support for international hires.
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in evolutionary biology, ecology, demography, or a related field, completed before the application deadline. Essential qualifications include strong skills in data management and quantitative methods (statistical software such as R or Python, spatial software like ARCGIS/QGIS), experience with large and complex datasets, and a record of publishing in international peer-reviewed journals. Fluency in English and excellent interpersonal skills are required, along with motivation, enthusiasm, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. The University of Turku values equality, diversity, and inclusivity, and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds.
The position offers a competitive salary determined by the university salary system (job requirement level 5–6, 3293.89–3841.13€ per month), with a personal performance component and a starting salary of approximately 3600–4300 euros/month. The contract includes a six-month trial period. The university provides flexible working hours, well-being services, and comprehensive support for international hires.
To apply, submit your application via the University of Turku online recruitment system by 27 February 2026. Applications should be written in English and include a motivation letter, CV, list of publications, degree certificate(s), and contact details for two academic referees. Additional relevant documents may be attached as 'Other attachment' in the portal. For further information about the position, contact Professor Virpi Lummaa ([email protected]). For questions about the application process, contact HR-specialist Kaisa Ketomäki ([email protected]).
The University of Turku is an inspiring and international academic community, committed to building a sustainable future through multidisciplinary research, education, and collaboration. Join us to make a significant impact in the evolving field of evolutionary demography.
