About the Program
The University of Turku invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in Animal Ecology titled “Movement Ecology of the White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)” at the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science. This doctoral position focuses on understanding how young white-tailed eagles develop habitat preferences and how early-life experiences influence large-scale movement patterns, using advanced biologging and GPS tracking methods. The project is supervised by Dr Carina Nebel and supported by Professor Toni Laaksonen within the Animal Ecology laboratory. The research duration is 3 years and is based in Turku, Finland, with an expected start date between March and May 2026. The project offers opportunities for international collaboration, advanced field research, statistical modelling, interdisciplinary training, and professional academic development.
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Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Turku
- Department/Faculty: Department of Biology, Faculty of Science
- Supervisor: Dr Carina Nebel
- Location: Turku, Finland
- Start Date (Anticipated): March–May 2026
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding: Full funding with monthly salary approximately €2600–2900, with possible extension funding
- Working Hours (if applicable): Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Animal Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Behavioural Ecology, Environmental Science, or a closely related discipline.
Research Focus/Area
- Movement ecology
- Habitat selection
- Wildlife ecology
- Animal behaviour
- GPS tracking
- Biologging technologies
- Large-scale spatial analysis
- Ecological data modelling
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Applicants must have a completed Master’s degree in a relevant field before the application deadline.
- Strong written and spoken English skills are required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in wildlife ecology, animal behaviour, and fieldwork.
- Skills in statistical analysis using R and/or GIS software.
- Experience handling large datasets, especially GPS tracking data.
- Strong motivation, initiative, and communication skills.
Key Features of the Program
- Structured doctoral research training
- International research environment
- Opportunities for international mobility
- Participation in scientific conferences
- Supportive research group and mentoring
- Flexible working hours and strong researcher support services
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted via the University of Turku’s online recruitment system.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (including publications, if any)
- Degree certificates
- Other relevant supporting documents
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 18 November 2025
- Deadline: 31 December 2025 (16:00 Europe/Helsinki time)
- Interviews (if applicable): January–February 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Turku
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: click here
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