Post-doctoral researcher position is available in the group of Ilkka Kronholm at the department of Biological and Environmental Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä. Starting earliest on 3rd of March 2025, but no later than 1st September, for a fixed term of three years. The genetics, epigenetics, and evolution group lead by Ilkka Kronholm studies the properties of mutations, broadly defined, including proterties of epistatic interactions and epigenetic changes. Our research questions are focused on understanding how different intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect evolutionary adaptation. As model systems we use the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa and fission yeast. The post-doctoral researcher will join an ERC-funded project that studies the properties of epistatic interactions. Epistatic interactions are known to play an important part in certain aspects of evolution, such as speciation. However, the properties of epistatic interactions are not very well known. In this project, we will estimate the probability that a pair of fixed mutations will exhibit a negative epistatic interaction, and are there some genes in the genome that are more often involved in epistatic interactions than others due to their place in the protein-protein interaction network for example. We plan to address these questions using transposon insertion libraries that will be constructed in different genetic backgrounds, and estimating the fitness effects of different insertions using population sequencing. We have different genetic backgrounds that we have obtained by a mutation accumulation experiment in fission yeast, and yeast populations that have adapted to different environments. Furthermore, the postdoc will participate in a long term experimental evolution project that further explores these questions. Examples of recent work from the group includes developing mutation accumulation lines for the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa, and analysis of how chromatin modifications affect mutation rate, see: Villalba de la Peña et al. 2023. Chromatin structure influences rate and spectrum of spontaneous mutations in Neurospora crassa. Genome Research 33: 1-13 https://doi.org/10.1101/gr.276992.122 To be eligible, the candidate needs to have a doctoral (PhD) degree in evolutionary biology, population genetics, genetics, or a related discipline with strong interest in evolutionary genetics. Experience with yeast genetics, analysis of NGS data, and good command of statistics can be an advantage. While previous experience with yeast is not mandatory, please note that previous laboratory experience is required. While the postdoctoral researcher is expected to contribute to the current project, and supervise students jointly with the PI, there is also the possibility to develod your own interests within the framework of the project or to participate in teaching if the researcher so wishes. The salary for a Postdoctoral Researcher is determined based on the task-specific demand level 5-6 of the university salary system for teaching and research staff. The salary range will be approximately 3500-4800 euro /month (gross income), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish lakeland, and has excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center and the city has a large student population. As such there is a vibrant cultural scene in the city. To find useful information about the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the international staff guide: https://www.jyu.fi/en/workwithus/international-staff-guide Please attach the following documents to the online application form: 1. Curriculum vitae, including contact information of two people willing to provide a reference 2. Cover letter explaining your motivation, research interests, and career plans. 3. List of publications 4. Relevant certificates / diplomas Please submit your application at the latest by 28th of February 2025 by using the link found on page: https://ats.talentadore.com/apply/postdoctoral-researcher-in-experimental-evolution-and-genetics/8pWaJM or using the tiny url link: https://tinyurl.com/bdeajwxf Informal inquiries are welcome and should be directed to Ilkka Kronholm email: ilkka.kronholm(at)jyu.fi lab website: ikronholm.net twitter: @kronholmlab Ilkka Kronholm Associate Professor of Evolutionary Biology Department of Biological and Environmental Science University of Jyväskylä ilkka.kronholm@jyu.fi +358 417491785 @kronholmlab "Kronholm, Ilkka" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)