Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Plant Genomics

Job description

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to Q-GEN (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials), a project funded by Business Finland.

Rapid advances in sequencing generate vast, complex omics datasets that challenge traditional computational methods but are becoming essential across many biological domains. Quantum computing for bioinformatics aims to address key bottlenecks in high-dimensional optimization and structured learning through quantum and quantum-inspired approaches that are compatible with noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) constraints.

The successful candidate will join the Plant Genetics and Genomics team at Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke). The postdoctoral researcher will identify bioinformatics problems suitable for quantum and hybrid computational approaches, develop new algorithms in collaboration with quantum physicists at Aalto University, and apply the resulting methods in simulated and real quantum-computing environments.

The research will primarily focus on genomic and multi-omics analyses in plant species. Potential applications include (but are not limited to) gene-network estimation and multi-omics modelling.

The postdoctoral researcher will be supervised by Dr Tuomas Hämälä and Dr Daniel Fischer at Luke and will collaborate closely with Professor Ilkka Tittonen’s group at Aalto University. The position will be based at a Luke office in either Jokioinen or Helsinki. The work will also include research visits to international collaborators.

Our expectations of the applicant

• a recently completed doctoral degree (typically no more than 5 years ago) in a relevant field, such as bioinformatics, genetics, machine learning, or data science
• experience in analysing large genomic and/or multi-omics datasets
• strong programming skills, preferably in Python
• experience working in Unix-based high-performance computing (HPC) environments
• good communication skills
• ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary research team
• excellent written and spoken English skills

Experience with quantum-computing platforms, such as IBM Qiskit, and with machine learning will be considered an advantage. We will also consider the quantity and quality of the applicant’s scientific publications, particularly those related to bioinformatics, plant genomics, machine learning, and quantum computing. Finnish-language skills are considered an advantage.

We offer you

The well-being of our people and a positive approach towards innovation and development are particularly important to us. Our mobile work model allows you to work in Finland in the location most appropriate for your work. In addition, we provide flexible hours, and as your employment with us continues, long vacations. We offer lunch benefits, as well as sports, culture, or commuting support.

Clarifications

The person selected for the position might need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More detailed information on the procedure and the subject's rights is available at www.supo.fi.

Contact information

Sirja Viitala
Research Manager, available 15.10 at 9-11 and 15-17 and 16.10 at 9-11 and 15-17
+358 29 532 6636
sirja.viitala@luke.fi

Daniel Fischer
Senior Scientist
+358 29 532 6670
daniel.fischer@luke.fi

Tuomas Hämälä
Senior Scientist, available 9.10. at 12-16, 16.10. at 12-16 and 23.10. at 12-16
+358 29 532 2239
tuomas.hamala@luke.fi

How to apply

We primarily request that applications be submitted electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you may also apply for this position by submitting your application to the registry office’s postal address. The ID number of the position applied for must be clearly stated both in the application and on the envelope. The application must be received by the end of the application period. Late applications will not be considered. Application documents will not be returned. Based on the information provided in the application documents, including education, work experience, and other relevant factors, applicants will be selected for interviews. Eligibility requirements will also be assessed with regard to the expected qualification.

The Registry of Natural Resources Institute Finland
Latokartanonkaari 9
00790 Helsinki, Finland

Employer

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organisation that builds sustainable future and well-being from renewable natural resources. We create knowledge-based solutions and services for our customers and add value to a sustainable and competitive business based on renewable natural resources. We also support public policy making related to natural resources and the resource economy.

Luke's tasks and organisation are regulated in the Act on the Natural Resources Institute Finland (561/2014). Luke is operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland.

Being open-minded, curious, and having a strong will to make a positive impact in the world bind Luke people together. We value our diverse working community consisting of people with different backgrounds and cultures and promote equality. On this basis, we are building a cheerful and respectful culture in which everyone’s input is appreciated. Sustainability is included in all our operations.

Other details

More information: Each person selected will undergo a sanctions check based on compliance with international and national sanctions obligations. In addition, a background check may be carried out on the selected person to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the person if they do not have Finnish citizenship.

Level of position: Specialists

Remote work: Full-time or part-time remote work

Description of the remote work: Mobile work is used at Luke. This means that work is performed where it suits best. Mobile work is only possible within Finland, and the practices of mobile work are agreed with the supervisor. We also meet regularly face-to-face.

Reason for fixed-term employment: Nature of work

Working time format: Office working hours

Trial period: The trial period is half the duration of the employment contract, but not exceeding six (6) months.

Remuneration information: The position is at complexity level 8 in Luke's salary system and the position specific salary is EUR 3704,31 per month. In addition, a salary component based on personal performance will be paid (max. 50% of the position specific salary). A new employee's personal performance component depends on competence and experience and generally falls in the range of 15-20 %. The applicant may also present a separate salary request.