Research assistant (1 year) in characterization of waste-based organic biofertilizers and their potential applications

Research at the Department of Biosystems and Technology explores the interactions among soils, plants, animals, environment, climate, infrastructure and humans in systems for sustainable production of food and renewable raw materials. Teaching activities deal with questions about sustainable and efficient use of limited resources, within the broader context of circular economy while facing the constraints of climate change. The Department is located at the SLU campus in Alnarp, outside of Malmö, Sweden. For more information about the department, visit: https://www.slu.se/en/departments/biosystems-technology/

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/

The holder of this position will be a part of a European funded (HORIZON-WIDERA-2021-ACCESS-03-01 – Twinning) and interdisciplinary research project called ECOTWINS . The project objective is to strengthen the research capacity of team at the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukr aine (NUBiP). Through several European partners (Denmark, Spain and Sweden), ECOTWINS creates a dual experiential learning environment and networking platform for best practices about using sustainable biofertilizers and agro-ecological intensification strategy to uplift the scientific excellence and translational skills of NUBiP team. Furthermore, this project will strengthen NUBiP existing networks with other Ukrainian and international institutions by widening its research outlook and network with the support of EU partners. As a test bed and model for sustainable cultivation, ECOTWINS will also have explorative sustainable biofertilizers and agro-ecological research as a common theme and across the work packages activities using local resources.

SLU is leading the ECOTWINS work packages concerning the characterization of organic biofertilizers (biostimulants) produced from biowastes, their recommendation, and eventual delivery for field trials managed by the University of Copenhagen at Taastrup and by NUBiP in Ukraine, and possibly other sites (contingency). The group of Horticultural Production Physiology is looking for a research assistant to assist in field trial planning, process the data of various trials, prepare scientific papers and reports, and some engagement with potential collaborators in the public and private sector. In addition, the research assistant will liaise with various partners for the production, purchase, delivery and application of the organic biofertilizers for field trials in Denmark, Ukraine and other sites. Due to the communication requirements and research plans across partnering countries, the research assistant is required to be flexible and be prepared for some travelling to the field trials.

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate who completed or is completing a MSc in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, plant biotechnology, soil science or a related field. Prospective graduate is admissible if his/her graduation is planned within three months after the starting date. The candidate should have a sound understanding of plant physiology and biochemistry, with emphasis on biostimulants, plant-microbes and plant-insect interactions, soil science, agricultural and horticultural technology. Additional knowledge on chemical ecology and plant molecular biology, genetics, and genomics is valued. The candidate must have experience in analytical techniques, physiological tools (gas exchange measurements), microbiome profiling, and statistical analyses. In the duration of the project, the research assistant will work with organic biofertilizers produced from biowastes by different bioconversions, such as insect rearing, anaerobic digestion, and composting. Thus, previous experience with these bioconversions and their products is a merit. The research assistant will work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural project where collaboration with researchers and stakeholders, both public and private, in different disciplinary fields and countries is frequent. Consequently, the candidate must have experience in multicultural and multidisciplinary work. Finally, the candidate should be able to work independently as well as to collaborate and have excellent communication skills, including the ability to communicate and write fluently in English. Additionally, other European languages are appreciated, especially Ukrainian, Danish or Spanish.

Alnarp, Sweden

Fixed term employment of 360 days, with possible prolongation.

50-60% extent, with negotiable changes.

According to agreement. We would like the Research Assistant to start by 1 June 2023.

We welcome your application no later than 2023-05-18, use the button below.

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=8396&rmlang=UK