Postdoctoral Researcher – Greenhouse Gases and Carbon Cycle in Agriculture – Finnish Meteorological Institute, Finland
Quick Overview
The Finnish Meteorological Institute is seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher for a two-year position focusing on modelling the exchange of biogenic greenhouse gases and the carbon cycle, particularly in agricultural ecosystems. The position involves developing methods that efficiently integrate in-situ and remote-sensing datasets with machine learning and process-based ecosystem models.
Experience Level: PhD in Agriculture, Atmospheric Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Remote Sensing, Physics, Data Science, Computer Science, or Mathematics
Best Fit: Candidates with experience in GHG modelling and programming skills
Deadline: August 20, 2026
Key Details
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Project | Greenhouse gases and carbon cycle in agriculture |
| Institute | Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) |
| Location | Kumpula, Helsinki, Finland |
| Qualification | PhD in Agriculture, Atmospheric Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Remote Sensing, Physics, Data Science, Computer Science, or Mathematics |
| Duration | 2 years (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2028) |
| Start Date | October 1, 2026 (or as agreed) |
| Deadline | August 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM (EET) |
| Contact | Liisa Kulmala – liisa.kulmala@fmi.fi |
What Makes This Position Stand Out
This position offers the opportunity to contribute to societally significant research on greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration in managed ecosystems. You’ll work in the Carbon Cycle Group within the Climate System Research Unit, which studies biological, physical, and chemical processes at the interface between the atmosphere and the land surface. The institute operates in a multidisciplinary research environment combining measurements, modelling, data analytics, and method development.
Research Focus
Our objective is to develop methods that efficiently integrate in-situ and remote-sensing datasets with machine learning and process-based ecosystem models.
Key areas:
- Biogeochemical and ecosystem process modelling
- Carbon cycle in agriculture and/or forestry
- Application of machine learning methods
- Integration of remote sensing data into ecosystem modelling and/or ecological field data
Key Responsibilities
- Planning, implementation, and reporting research
- Publish results in international peer-reviewed journals
- Participate in societal interaction and science communication
- Contribute to the supervision of postgraduate students when possible
- Collaborate with national and international research networks
Who Should Apply
Required:
- Doctoral degree in Agriculture, Atmospheric Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Remote Sensing, Physics, Data Science, Computer Science, or Mathematics
- Experience in modelling biogenic greenhouse gas exchange
- Strong experience in applying research methods, conducting analyses, and reporting results
- Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, R, C++, Fortran)
- Experience in scientific publishing and international research collaborations
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Fluent spoken and written English
- Willingness to travel
Considered an advantage:
- Experience in statistical methods, AI and data assimilation techniques
- Experience in land surface modelling and/or carbon cycle or ecosystem modelling
- Previous work in research projects related to climate, soil science, remote sensing, or environmental monitoring
- Skills in handling observational data, large datasets, and model simulations
- Interest in multidisciplinary research and stakeholder collaboration
- Experience in acquiring research funding and managing projects
- Familiarity with research infrastructures (e.g. ICOS, SMEAR, AgriFlux)
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years (October 2026 – September 2028) |
| Location | Kumpula, Helsinki, Finland |
| Salary | Based on experience and performance (FMI salary scale, base level 11.5-12.5) |
| Working Hours | Flexible |
| Remote Work | Partial remote work possible |
| Work Environment | International research team, modern facilities |
| Benefits | ePassi (cultural, sports, well-being), on-site lunch restaurant, café, gym |
| Occupational Healthcare | Comprehensive |
| Annual Leave | According to length of employment |
Application Tips
- Highlight GHG modelling experience – Core requirement.
- Show programming skills – Python, R, C++, Fortran.
- Demonstrate scientific publishing – International journals.
- Mention data assimilation or AI experience – Advantageous.
- Apply via Valtiolle.fi – Electronic submissions preferred.
- Submit in Finnish or English – Both accepted.
How to Apply
Submit your application via the Valtiolle.fi recruiting platform.
Required documents:
- CV
- List of publications
- Names and contact details of 1-3 referees
Application Deadline: August 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM (EET)
Contact: Liisa Kulmala – liisa.kulmala@fmi.fi
Postal Address: Finnish Meteorological Institute, P.O.BOX 503 (Erik Palménin aukio 1, 00560 Helsinki)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the duration? 2 years (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2028).
- What is the location? Kumpula, Helsinki, Finland.
- What programming languages are required? Python, R, C++, Fortran.
- Is remote work possible? Yes, partial remote work is possible.
- What is the deadline? August 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM (EET).
