Department of Forest Ecology and Management

We are looking for a research assistant to help us with field and laboratory work during the summer of 2025 (June - September). The work will involve a combination of fieldwork in Lapland and laboratory work in Umeå.

About the job

We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate for summer work in the field and lab to assist with projects related to forests, biodiversity, and the carbon cycle. The work period spans from June 2 to September 30. The fieldwork will consist of 1 to 2 intensive two-week periods during June, July, and a month-long period in September. We are looking for someone who can work the entire period or who is available for shorter, periodic work periods, such as one or two of the field periods. Therefore, more than one person may need to be hired.

Your background

Applicants should have a strong work ethic, be proactive, and thrive in a team environment while being aware of both group and individual goals. The fieldwork may involve being in remote locations and facing challenging weather conditions. The position requires physical endurance, including carrying heavy loads of up to 24 kg over distances of up to 1 km in forest environments. Communication in English (both spoken and written) is a requirement.

Requirements:

• Strong work ethic and ability to take initiative.
• Team-oriented with an understanding of both individual and group goals.
• Willingness to work in remote locations and under challenging weather conditions.
• Comfortable carrying loads of up to 24 kg for up to 1 km in the forest.
• Good command of English (both spoken and written).

About us

The department consists of approximately 115 people, of which 9 are professors. Our mission is to promote a better understanding of forest ecosystems and how forest ecosystems can be managed best today and in the future. For more information about the department, see: http://www.slu.se/institutioner/skogens-ekologi-skotsel/ (http://www.slu.se/institutioner/skogens-ekologi-skotsel/)

Read more about our benefits and what it's 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:

Umeå

Employment type:

Fixed-term employment from 2 weeks up to 4 months

Extent:

100%

Start date:

250602, or later

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2025-03-31.

Selection among applicants who meet the requirements will be made with reference to 1) a half-page personal letter in English, describing yourself and your motivation and fit for the above-mentioned position. Indicate whether you prefer to work the entire period (June 2 – September 30), or shorter periodic intervals within this timeframe. 2) a brief CV in English, including your education and relevant work experience; 3) contact details for one or two references who are familiar with your qualifications.

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 operations are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites throughout the country.

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