We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher in statistics to develop methods for analyzing large scale biodiversity and ecosystem function data at the University of Helsinki.
Our approach is based on hierarchical Bayesian models that allow us to integrate heterogeneous, but complementary, ecological and environmental data. Depending on the background and interest of the candidate, the work will focus on a) extending state-of-the-art joint species distribution models (JSDM) to analyze ecosystem functions provided by species communities, b) developing methods to infer species and community level phenological patterns from noisy and censored data, or c) developing methods to analyze effects of extreme climate events on species communities.
The candidate is also expected to contribute to other projects within the Research Center for Ecological Change in collaboration with other researchers in REC (see the other postdoc positions in this call). Opportunities for professional development, e.g. in project management, leadership, mentoring, teaching and grant writing, are available and encouraged.
Candidates should have a doctoral degree in ecological statistics, statistics, or similar area, and previous experience in working with hierarchical Bayesian models and Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. Previous experience in ecological data analysis is considered as a strength. We seek candidates with the ability to analyze and interpret complex ecological data and a keen interest in advancing our understanding of drivers of natural populations and ecosystem functions they provide. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to conceive, execute and complete research projects, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team, are essential.
Link to the full call text below. Note the call text is one among three postdoc positions:
https://jobs.helsinki.fi/job/Helsinki-3-Post-doc-positions-in-biodiversity-science%2C-genetic-indicator-assessment-and-ecological-statistics/828626402/?feedId=350602&utm_source=CareerSite_UniversityOfHelsinki
Yours,
Jarno Vanhatalo
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D.Sc. (Tech.), Professor of statistics
Department of Mathematics and Statistics and
Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme
University of Helsinki