The Faculty of Science invites applications for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN MACHINE LEARNING FOR NATURE CONSERVATION starting from August 2025 or as agreed. The Postdoctoral Researcher will be offered a fully funded contract of up to 3 years.

About the position

The postdoctoral research position will require developing and applying cutting-edge machine learning methods to computer vision and natural language processing techniques to analyze digital content such as images, videos, and textual content that relate to human-nature relationships, with a focus on data derived from digital platforms. The researcher will contribute to advancing methods and analyses in the BIOBANG project, which explores the relationships between indirect and direct drivers of biodiversity loss and investigates what conservation actions hold the potential for transformative changes in human-nature relationships, also by using digital data and methods.

Working as a postdoctoral researcher

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to:

• Develop and apply machine learning models for analyzing complex datasets related to nature conservation.
• Establish and maintain code and data repositories to ensure efficient workflow and collaboration.
• Collaborate with the research team to advance the goals of the BIOBANG project and contribute to its interdisciplinary research agenda.
• Contribute to the broader group’s activities, including supervision of students and contributions to teaching.
• Lead and collaborate on publishing high quality manuscripts in leading peer-reviewed journals.
   

The person we are looking for

The ideal candidate will:

• Have a doctoral degree in computer science or a related technical field or proven skills of applying machine learning models in conservation science or other environmental sciences.
• Be proficient in programming languages and machine learning tools, primarily in Python, Web/Cloud Services and NoSQL/SQL database (MongoDB/Postgres).
• Additional experience in R, JavaScript, ReactJS, Mechanical Turk would be advantageous but not essential for the application.
• Have experience in: (i) creating and maintaining optimal data pipeline architecture; (ii) assembling large, complex data set and set up annotation tools; (iii) building the infrastructure required for optimal extraction, transformation, and loading of data from a wide variety of data sources; (iv) keeping our data secure and compliant with privacy requirements; and (v) creating data tools for analysis and scientific requirements in the team.
• Be willing to work in an interdisciplinary team, carrying out research in conservation science that can help address the global biodiversity crisis.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
   

The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of all genders, linguistic and cultural backgrounds, and minority groups.

Why work for us?

The BIOBANG project is a groundbreaking research initiative that investigates biodiversity loss by using an interdisciplinary approach and innovative methodologies combining traditional and novel digital data sources. The project is directly aligned with global and EU biodiversity goals, and you will contribute to global conservation efforts.

The Helsinki Lab of Interdisciplinary Conservation Science (HELICS) is an interdisciplinary and internationally recognized team with expertise in conservation science, geography, computer science, social sciences and economics. We develop methods and analyses that can help investigate human-nature interactions to inform decision making. We carry out global to local analyses, by integrating traditional and novel digital data sources. Our research takes advantage of digital data sources and methods to study human-nature interactions at relevant temporal and spatial scales. We are interested in finding sustainable solutions that can help support both nature and people.

As part of the HELICS lab, you will benefit from:

• A supportive and caring working environment, with opportunities to enhance your leadership and supervisory skills.
• Training in cutting-edge research methods and participation in interdisciplinary projects.
• Professional development, including by attending pedagogic courses.
   

The University of Helsinki is one of the leading multidisciplinary research universities in the world, renowned for its academic excellence and cutting-edge research. It is ranked among the top 100 universities globally and is a key player in solving some of the most pressing challenges facing society today, including environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

Salary and Benefits

The starting salary of the postdoctoral researcher will range from approximately 3700 - 4000 Euros/month, depending on the appointees’ qualifications and experience. On top of the salary, the University of Helsinki offers comprehensive benefits to its employees, including:

• Occupational health care.
• Flexible working hours suiting various life situations.
• Access to high quality sports facilities.
• Opportunities for professional development.
   

Please find more information about the staff benefits.

Finland, a member of the EU, offers high-quality free schooling (also in English), generous family benefits and healthcare. Finland and the Helsinki region possess top expertise in sciences in terms of a vibrant talent pool, leading research, strong support services and functioning collaboration networks. Please find more information about working at the University of Helsinki and living in Finland.

Interested?

Please submit your application, which includes the following PDF-documents in English:

• A motivation letter describing your interest in and potential contribution to the position.
• An academic portfolio in the format approved by the Faculty of Science (as described on https://www.helsinki.fi/en/faculty-of-science/faculty/join-us/academic-portfolio).
• Other relevant documentation, such as an PhD/MSc thesis or other text demonstrating your writing skills (optional).
• Names and contact details of two referees who can provide reference letters upon request.
   

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

Applicants who have a helsinki.fi username and a valid employment/grant/visitor contract at the University of Helsinki are requested to submit their application via the Employee login button.

Deadline for applications: 15 May 2025.

More information?

For more information about the position, please contact:

• Professor Enrico Di Minin, Email: enrico.di.minin(at)helsinki.fi, Tel: +358(0)294150770
   

For support with the recruitment system, please contact:

• Email: hr-kumpula(at)helsinki.fi