Department of Soil and Environment

The Department of Soil and Environment is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in soil science. This position is suitable for those who wish to further develop as a researcher in soil science after completing their doctoral studies.

About the Job

The successful candidate will conduct research aimed at improving the precision and accuracy of estimates of soil carbon in forest land within the project “Better Understanding of Soil Carbon – Improved Sampling and Analytical Methods for Enhanced Monitoring of Soil Carbon.” Responsibilities include soil sampling, laboratory analysis, data evaluation, and scientific publication. You will become part of a research group that addresses questions regarding the effects of land use on the greenhouse gas balance of soils.

Your Background

A PhD in a relevant subject based on soil science research where determinations of carbon content and carbon stocks in soil have been part of the research tasks. Experience with geostatistical methods and/or spectral analysis methods for soil sample analysis is an asset. The candidate should have documented ability to independently conduct research and publish results scientifically. A postdoctoral position is a career-developing employment for younger researchers, so we are looking for a candidate who has defended their thesis no more than three years ago. Excellent proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is required. A valid driver's license (category B) is mandatory.

About Us

The Department of Soil and Environment is a leading soil science center, both nationally and internationally. We research the properties and fundamental functions of soils and study how environmental and climate changes affect soils. Through research, environmental analysis, and education, we contribute knowledge about sustainable land use for the future and develop new solutions to support decision-making in agriculture, forestry, and urban environments. The work environment at the department is international, and we have approximately 100 employees.

Research is conducted within seven subject groups focusing on soil nutrient cycling, soil chemistry, soil biology, soil mechanics and tillage, biogeophysics, water management and water quality, as well as the biogeochemistry of forest soils. We are responsible for important research infrastructure in the form of soil chemical and soil physical laboratories, a computer tomography, long-term experiments, a lysimeter facility, and field research stations Lanna and Lövsta that provide infrastructure for crop research. The department participates in approximately 30 courses at undergraduate and advanced levels.

We are part of SLU's Soil, Water, and Environment Center (MVM Center), with close ties to environmental analysis and research on water, cycles, and bioenergy. The activities contribute to meeting national environmental and climate goals and the UN's global sustainability goals. The department is located at Campus Ultuna in Uppsala and in Skara. Read more about the department here (https://www.slu.se/mark).

The MVM Center is located on SLU's campus area with newly created garden environments, old cultural landscapes, and a terminal moraine directly adjacent to the workplace.

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

Location:

Uppsala

Employment Type:

Fixed-term employment for 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Extent:

100% or as agreed

Start Date:

2024-08-11 or as agreed.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2025-04-21.

Union Contacts:

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

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable living, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems and responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites throughout the country.

SLU has over 3000 employees, 5000 students and doctoral candidates, and a turnover of over three billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We strive for an equal and inclusive work environment where open conversations between people with different experiences lay the foundation for scientific integrity, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.