PhD student: More efficient use of bioash – a sustainable resource

Are you interested in participating in research on a more efficient return of biogenic ashes, i.e., ash formed when biomass is burned, to forest soil for more sustainable value chains where soil depletion is prevented despite increased growth and bioenergy and timber extraction? Several key questions need to be answered: how does the chemical form of different ashes affect their plant availability, how do we create more efficient handling, spreading techniques, and logistical chains while promoting biological diversity, can the project generate new actor constellations and provide effective measures and new guidelines for the future?

The Department of Forest Biomaterials and Technology (SBT) is part of the Faculty of Forestry, with about 50 employees and is based in both Umeå and Uppsala. The department conducts high-quality research and education at a high international level and collaborates with society and industry to develop a bio-based economy where forest biomaterials are a crucial resource.

Learn more about our benefits and what it's like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/

The project is of great importance for both the forest industry and bioenergy producers, where an efficient, simplified, and cost-effective return of biogenic ash can potentially increase sustainability and CO2 sequestration in Swedish forests. The results imply that bioash may be seen as an even more significant resource in the future, benefiting not only forest production but also ensuring the nutrient balance in forest soils. The PhD candidate will study soil nutrient content, test new spreading techniques, conduct field experiments examining leaching mechanisms, nutrient flows, and monitor how ash return affects forest soil and biodiversity in the long term.

You will also participate in workshops and seminars and present research results at national and international conferences. You will have significant freedom in your work and the responsibility to drive and achieve the project's goals. You will be supported by a team of experienced and dedicated supervisors at the faculty. As a PhD candidate, you will be part of the faculty's research school SILVA (https://www.slu.se/en/graduate-schools/silva-research-school/ ), providing social and professional activities during your research education.

We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate who is eager to learn and develop fundamental knowledge on the future use of bioash. An advanced degree (master's or equivalent) in biology, forestry science, geoscience, or another relevant field is required. Scientific publications are in English, making proficiency in both written and spoken English a prerequisite. Some teaching and communication with the forestry sector are included, making proficiency in the Swedish language highly advantageous. Experience in working within the forestry sector is also considered a merit.

The following competencies will be considered in the selection process:

• Experience in field studies and inventory
• Experience in data management and statistical analyses
• Experience in writing scientific texts
• Ability to work independently
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

A Swedish driver's license and driving experience are mandatory.

Umeå

Employment for 4 years

100 %

June 2024 or by agreement

We welcome your application no later than 2024-03-07, use the button below.

To be eligible for education at the research level, a completed degree at an advanced level or at least four years of full-time studies, including at least one year at an advanced level, or equivalent competence, is required. Selection among eligible applicants is based on: written application including a resume; thesis work, copies of degree certificates and transcripts from previous studies at undergraduate and graduate levels at university or college, two personal references, proficiency in English. More information on English language requirements can be found on the following page: https://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/new-doctoral-students/english-language-requirements/  

https://internt.slu.se/min-anstallning/facket/kontaktpersoner/

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) develops the understanding and sustainable use and management of biological natural resources. The university ranks well internationally within its subject areas. SLU is a research-intensive university that also offers unique degree programmes in for example rural development and natural resource management, environmental economics, animal science and landscape architecture. SLU has just over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and a turnover of SEK 3 billion. The university has invested heavily in a modern, attractive environment on its campuses in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala.

Contact person

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