PhD in Ecological Statistics – University of Helsinki

About the Program

The University of Helsinki, one of Europe’s top research universities, invites applications for two fully funded Doctoral Researcher (PhD) positions in Ecological Statistics within the Environmental and Ecological Statistics Research Group (EnvStat). Under the supervision of Professor Jarno Vanhatalo and University Lecturer Elina Numminen, this 3.5-year programme explores how ecological and environmental processes shape biodiversity and ecosystem functions. Based in Helsinki, Finland, the research integrates hierarchical Bayesian models with long-term ecological data to understand the impacts of global change. The programme offers a dynamic, international environment at the interface of ecology, mathematics, and data science, aligning with the University’s goal of advancing sustainable environmental research.

Program Details

Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: University of Helsinki
Department/Faculty: Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Science; and Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme, Faculty of Environmental and Biological Sciences
Supervisor: Professor Jarno Vanhatalo, University Lecturer Elina Numminen
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Start Date (Anticipated): Flexible – by June 2026
Duration: 3.5 years
Funding: Fully funded; salary approx. €2600–€2700/month
Working Hours: Full-time (based on Finnish university standards)
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field

Research Focus/Area

Ecological Statistics
Hierarchical Bayesian Modelling
Joint Species Distribution Models (JSDM)
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function Analysis
Climate Change and Environmental Impacts

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Statistics, Data Science, Machine Learning, Mathematical Modelling, or a related discipline

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with Bayesian models and computation
Background in ecological data analysis
Strong quantitative and analytical skills
Interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of ecology and statistics

Key Features of the Program

Work within the renowned Environmental and Ecological Statistics Research Group (EnvStat)
Collaboration with the Research Centre for Ecological Change (REC)
Opportunities for professional development, teaching, and grant writing
Access to international research networks, ecological datasets, and statistical tools
Comprehensive university benefits, including healthcare, sports facilities, and career development support