Department of Ecology

We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher interested in exploring how the interactions between soil, plants, and the environment are affected by a combination of agriculture and solar cells. The postdoc will develop mathematical models based on biophysical processes combined with available data. The postdoc will also contribute to a literature synthesis on ecosystem services in agrivoltaic systems.

About the job

Carefully designed agrivoltaic systems have the potential to provide both solar energy and other ecosystem services, including food production and support for biodiversity. At the same time, solar panels alter the growing conditions for crops, so that crops in agrivoltaics are affected by climate conditions differently than in open fields.

The postdoc will explore the advantages and disadvantages of different agrivoltaics on crops and their vulnerability to negative climate conditions as well as ecosystem services. The postdoc will develop and apply process-based models of biophysical processes in fields with solar energy. Ecosystem services in agrivoltaic systems will be evaluated through a literature synthesis. The postdoc will join a strong research group led by Professor Giulia Vico (http://www.slu.se/en/ew-cv/giulia-vico/ (http://www.slu.se/en/ew-cv/giulia-vico/)) in close collaboration with Associate Professor Erik Öckinger (https://www.slu.se/en/ew-cv/erik-ockinger/ (https://www.slu.se/en/ew-cv/erik-ockinger/)). The position is linked to the Solar Energy Research Center SOLVE (https://www.uu.se/forskning/solve (https://www.uu.se/forskning/solve)) – a consortium of researchers and stakeholders working on various aspects of solar energy.

Your background

We are looking for a motivated candidate focused on an academic career in ecology, environmental science, geoscience, agronomy, engineering, or related fields. A PhD is a requirement for the position and it can be in environmental science, geoscience, atmospheric science, ecology, mathematics, physics, or equivalent.

Documented research experience and interest in developing models that link plants, soil, and the atmospheric boundary layer, as well as good skills in data processing and coding (in MatLab, R, Python, Fortran, C, Mathematica, or other programming languages for data analysis and modeling) are required. The candidate is expected to be capable and willing to take initiative and work independently as well as in a team. The candidate should have documented skills in scientific writing. Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, are required.

The selection among applicants is based on your written application and interviews. The application should be written in English and include:

1. a description of academic interests and why the applicant is interested in this position. The description should particularly highlight your current research interests and other activities relevant to the position (max 5000 characters including spaces)
2. Curriculum Vitae including a complete publication list divided into peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed publications
3. contact information for two referees
4. copies of relevant certificates

Particular emphasis will be placed on your written motivation describing your current research interests and your specific interests and competencies within one of the three areas mentioned above. We also value personal qualities such as teamwork ability.

About us

The position is located at the Department of Ecology, which is part of the Ecology Center at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala. The Ecology Center offers an inspiring research environment, with researchers with highly varied and complementary expertise and a comprehensive national and international network focused on sustainable agriculture. We conduct research for sustainable agriculture, forestry, and nature conservation. Our fundamental research on populations, communities, and ecosystems forms the basis for understanding the impact of land use and climate on animals, plants, and soil nutrient status and greenhouse gas balance. Solutions are sought that deliver sufficient food sustainably, mitigate climate change, conserve endangered species, support biodiversity and ecosystem services. Active dialogue, collaboration, and close contacts with stakeholders are key activities. We build on extensive national and international research collaborations to generate cutting-edge research and cooperation to further develop ecology as a science and promote sustainable agriculture.

More information about the department/division: Department of Ecology | External website (slu.se) (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Read 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. The location of the position in Uppsala also enables collaboration with researchers at Uppsala University and Stockholm University.

Employment form:

Fixed-term employment for 24 months, with possible extension.

Scope:

100%.

Start date:

By agreement.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2025-05-06.

Union contact persons:

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

The 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 a responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. The main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental farms, and educational sites throughout the country.

SLU has over 3000 employees, 5000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over three billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We work 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 with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.