Ref SLU.ua.2023.2.5.1-3053
Institutionen för skoglig mykologi och växtpatologi
An fixed-term appointment as post-doctoral researcher is vacant at the Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala. Our department provides a dynamic and international environment that comprises experts who conduct fundamental and applied research on interactions between microorganisms and plants, mycology, microbial ecology and evolution, and biodiversity.
Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/
For more information:
https://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-mycology-plantpathology/
Duties:
We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher to study the relationships between soil biodiversity and ecosystem services across pedoclimatic regions in Europe. This position is part of the recently launched European project SOB4ES (https://sob4es.eu/). This project sets out to develop an integrated framework that fully includes soil biodiversity contribution to ecosystem services across relevant spatial and temporal scales.
This postdoc position in the Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology focuses on the molecular analysis of nematodes and enchytraeids. Soil samples will be collected from agricultural fields, grasslands, and forests in the fall of 2023, followed by molecular lab analyses at the Uppsala BioCenter. Data will be analyzed in the context of taxonomy, trophic groups, food web indices, and network structure. Depending on your starting date, you may also contribute to the collection of soil samples, the exchange of samples within the European project consortium, and other aspects of the SOB4ES project.
The position is fully funded for two years. The supervisor for the post-doctoral researcher will be Prof. Paul Kardol (Swedish University of Agricultural Science, Umeå). In addition, you will collaborate with project partners at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) in Wageningen. Research exchanges with SOB4ES partners may be possible.
Qualifications:
We seek an enthusiastic and highly-motivated individual with excellent and interpersonal communication skills in verbal and written English, and a strong work ethic. We seek someone capable of conducting primary research (mostly in the lab but possible also in the field) and developing scientific publications targeted for prominent international journals. The successful candidate should have excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
We seek someone with a PhD in ecology or closely related field, with an emphasis on soil biodiversity. Previous experience with molecular lab work is required. Preference is given to candidates with an interest in soil nematodes and enchytraeids. The candidate must have proven proficiency in writing and publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers. Good numerical and statistical skills are desirable.
As postdoctoral appointments are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we are primarily looking for candidates with a doctoral degree that is three years old at most.
Place of work:
Uppsala, Sweden
Form of employment:
Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.
Extent:
100%
Starting date:
15 October 2023 – 1 January 2024
Application:
We welcome your application no later than 21 of September, use the button below.
Selection among applicants meeting the requirements is made with reference to 1) a one-page cover letter in English, describing yourself and your motivation and match to the above-mentioned position. 2) a curriculum vitae, including your education and relevant work experience; 3) contact details of two references familiar with the your qualifications.
Academic union representatives:
https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/
The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.
SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Contact person
Paul Kardol
Professor
firstname.surname@slu.se