Post-doc position: How Continuous Cover Forestry can help with carbon sequestration?

Continuous Cover Forestry and carbon sequestration

Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) is an approach to forest management which is based on ecological and environmental principles. There are many variants of CCF and the lowest common denominator is the continuity of woodland climate and soil processes, i.e. the avoidance of large-scale clearfellings. CCF is currently much discussed in Sweden and is favoured by the Swedish Society as an alternative to traditional rotation forestry. CCF has many benefits such as providing tools for mitigating climate change, maintaining biodiversity, conservation and recreation. This project aims at providing a benchmark for the potential of CCF to improve and optimise carbon sequestration in forests.  

The position is fully funded for two years. The post-doctoral researcher will be collaboratively supervised by Professors Arne Pommerening and Matthias Peichl (Swedish University of Agricultural Science, Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Umeå).  

Duties

• establish experimental research plots in mixed-species forests at Vindeln Research Park near Umeå in Northern Sweden,
• carry out detailed tree mapping and measurements of various tree variables,
• determine tree growth rates and wood density using increment borers,
• develop allometric relationships for tree seedlings and saplings,
• quantify soil carbon fluxes using the chamber technique,
• analyse and model the relationships between forest structure complexity and carbon sequestration/storage,
• determine and communicate the implications of the research results for forest management,
• carry out research dissemination and training courses.  

We seek an enthusiastic, responsible and highly-motivated candidate that fulfils the following requirements:

• PhD in ecology, forestry or statistics and an interest in quantitative work and modelling,
• Ability and interest in carrying out independent research in the field, in the lab and at the computer,
• Statistical, modelling and lab skills are essential as well as an excellent knowledge of the statistical R software,
• Proficiency in writing and publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers to be placed in prominent international peer-reviewed journals,
• Superb organisational and problem-solving skills,
• Excellent and interpersonal communication skills in verbal and written English and strong work ethics,
• Valid driving license and passport,

 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.

The department includes about 100 people of which 11 are professors. Our mission is to advance the understanding of forest ecosystems and how these should be managed today and in the future. For more information: http://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-ecology-management/

Read more about our benefits and working at SLU by visiting: https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

Umeå

Temporary employment 24 months

100%

May 2 2024

Please submit your application before deadline February 1 2024. You can submit your application by clicking the button below.

Specific documents attached: The application should contain the following written in English: 1) a cover letter describing yourself and your match to the above-mentioned project; 2) a CV describing your education, publications, and relevant work experience, 3) names and contact information for at least three references, and 4) PhD certificate.

SLU is an equal opportunity employer, and we particularly look forward to applications from under-represented groups in this area of research.

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

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