PhD position in Physiological Plant Ecology at the University of Helsinki

More details about the position:
http://www.mv.helsinki.fi/aphalo/spectra_proj_PhD_ann.html
(spectra_proj_PhD_ann.html)

Project: Re-assessing the ecological consequences of ozone depletion:
a field comparison of the action spectra used in UV-B research with
plants and vegetation
http://www.mv.helsinki.fi/aphalo/spectra_proj.html
(spectra_proj.html)

Research group: SenPEP group
Sensory Photobiology and Ecophysiology of Plants
http://www.mv.helsinki.fi/aphalo/group.html

Salary and duration
The initial salary will be at "job demands" level 1 or 2 of the new salary scale for research and teaching staff (approx. between 1700 and 1900 õ,ơ per month). The salary will depend on the previous experience of the applicant, and will be later revised based on performance. The salary is expected to increase as the experience of the student improves. Initial employment contract will be for 42 months, and start on 1 March 2007, or as agreed.

Requirements
MSc degree completed or close to be completed. Interest in plant ecology and physiology. Good command of the English language. Good writing and presentation skills. Experience in chemical and genetic laboratory methods, and the cultivation of plants will be seen as advantageous. Willingness to integrate into our research group and to work full-time towards the goal of obtaining a PhD, in collaboration with the other members of the group.

What we offer
In Viikki you will be at a very active centre of plant biology research and teaching, with ample possibilities for collaboration and learning. Our research group has national and international contacts that will allow interactions and visits to other laboratories. The subject of our research is the "hot" topic in the study of the consequences of ozone depletion on vegetation as indicated by the latest UNEP report, but has also more general ecological implications. Our group has the knowhow and experience needed and our work is recognized internationally. You would join a dynamic, multifaceted and open minded research group.

Applications
Applications must include:
1. a short letter describing why you are interested in doing research within our group, your expectations, and information about your interests and your background.
2. transcript of your study records
3. copy of your MSc thesis if available
4. curriculum vitae

Also ask two earlier employers, thesis supervisors or teachers, to send a letter of recommendation directly to pedro.aphalo(at)helsinki.fi

Please send applications in writing to arrive by December 29 to:
Pedro J. Aphalo
Dep. Biological and Environmental Sciences
Plant Biology
P.O. Box 65 (Biocenter 3, Viikinkaari 1)
00014 University of Helsinki
Promising candidates will be interviewed during January in Helsinki (or if from abroad by phone or Skype).


For more information contact pedro.aphalo(at)helsinki.fi
(after 9 December by e-mail only as I will be abroad)

Pedro J. Aphalo
Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences
Plant Biology / Plant Ecology
P.O. Box 65 (Biocenter 3, Viikinkaari 1)
00014 University of Helsinki

Tel. (mobile) +358 50 3721 504
Tel. (office) +358 9 191 57897
Fax (office) +358 9 191 57788

mailtoedro.aphalo(at)helsinki.fi
http://www.mv.helsinki.fi/aphalo/