Post-doc position on soil microbes and microclimate across forest types

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.

For more information:

https://www.slu.se/en/departments/forest-mycology-plantpathology/

We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher to study the relationships between microclimate and soil microbial communities across contrasting Swedish forest types. The project sets out to understand how forest structure (canopy, understory vegetation) modifies the macroclimate to form the microclimate that soil microbes experiences and that ultimately determines soil ecosystem carbon cycling processes.

This postdoc position in the Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology focuses on the molecular analysis of soil microbial community composition and expression of functional genes. Depending on the candidate’s interest, there is also the possibility to include other groups of soil biota, such as protists and nematodes. Soil samples will be collected from an existing microclimate logger network established in 2022, including temperate and boreal forests in the south, middle, and north of Sweden. These sites are part of the SITES Infrastructure for Ecosystem Science. Lab analyses. Lab analyses will be performed at SLU’s Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology at the Uppsala BioCenter. Data will be analyzed in the context of taxonomy and function.

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), Dr. Caroline Greiser (Stockholm University), and other researchers in the Forest Microbiology unit at SLU’s Department of Forest Mycology and Plant Pathology.

We seek an enthusiastic and highly-motivated candidate with excellent 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 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, microbiology, or closely related field, with a strong interested in soil microbial ecology. Previous experience with molecular lab work is required. The candidate must have proven proficiency in writing and publishing peer-reviewed scientific papers. Good numerical and statistical skills are also required.

The position is intended for a junior researcher and we are primarily looking for people who have completed their doctorate no more than three years ago.

Uppsala, Sweden

Temporary employment 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

100%

Between 1 May and 15 June 2024

Please submit your application before deadline 28 March 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 diploma.

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

URL to this pagehttps://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/jobs-vacancies/?rmpage=job&rmjob=9875&rmlang=UK