Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Evolutionary Biology

Modelling the Evolution of Sex-Specific Differences in Life History and Immunity

Supervisor: Dr. Piret Avila Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki

The Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Academy Research Fellow Dr. Piret Avila are seeking a highly motivated

Postdoctoral researcher to develop theoretical work on the evolution of sex-specific differences in immunity and life history traits.

We are accepting applications immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The ideal starting date is March 2026, or preferably by September 2026.

The position involves developing mathematical models to understand how natural selection shapes sex-specific immune strategies. The goal is to generate quantitative predictions testable against empirical data from diverse ecological contexts. We use methods from theoretical evolutionary biology, including optimal control theory, life history modelling, adaptive dynamics, and population genetics.

This position is part of the interdisciplinary consortium at the University of Helsinki, Sex Differences in Immunity, led by Dr. Avila, which brings together researchers across evolutionary biology, immunology, genomics, demography, and statistics to bridge evolutionary and mechanistic explanations of sex differences in immunity.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Starting salary for post-doctoral researchers is approximately 3625 euros/month
• A fully-funded 3-year position at the University of Helsinki (Viikki campus)
• An opportunity to conduct research as part of a vibrant interdisciplinary consortium, bridging evolutionary theory with immunology, genomics, and demography
• Collaboration across disciplines, with research visits to leading groups in the field
• Funding for attending international conferences to build your scientific network
• Access to excellent resources and professional development opportunities

The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development (https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers).

YOUR PROFILE

• PhD in biology, mathematics, or a related field
• Strong background in mathematical or computational modelling
• Ability to develop and pursue independent research questions
• Interest in or experience with interdisciplinary research is a plus

How to apply

• A motivation letter (max 1 page), short description of your research interests and description of your background relevant to the position
• Curriculum vitae (max 3 pages)
• Publication list
• Contact information of two persons who are willing to provide a reference letter by separate request

External applicants, please submit your application using the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the Apply Now button.

Applicants who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment contract, a grant researcher's contract or a visiting researcher's contract at the University of Helsinki are requested to leave their application by using the Employee Login button.

The closing date for applications is 28 February 2026 at 23:59 EEST.

We will process applications already during the application period and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.

Further information

• About the position: Academy Research Fellow Piret Avila piret.avila@helsinki.fi
• Recruitment system: rekrytointi@helsinki.fi
• Viikki Campus: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/campuses/viikki-campus
• Support for international staff: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/welcome and https://ihhelsinki.fi (International House Helsinki)
• Why choose University of Helsinki: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/why-university-helsinki
• Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-biological-and-environmental-sciences