Department of Plant Protection Biology

We offer a postdoctoral position in phytopathology for the EU project WildCrop, aiming to develop a new concept ("plant breeding for biocontrol of phytopathogens") to simultaneously optimize plant resistance and microbial biocontrol. The project is expected to lead to more synergies between resistance and biocontrol.

About the Job

The postdoc will be based in Alnarp and collaborate with both local project members and international partners in Italy (University of Udine) and Spain (University of Málaga).

The main part of the postdoctoral project involves investigating continental variation in interactions between the wild host plant Fragaria vesca (wild strawberry), two plant pathogens (Botrytis cinerea, causing gray mold, and Colletotrichum acutatum, causing anthracnose), and a microbial "bodyguard" (the yeast-like microbe Aureobasidium pullulans). The postdoc will screen plants collected from across Europe for their resistance to pathogens. Subsequently, the candidate will screen A. pullulans lines collected from the same locations for their ability to counteract the pathogens. Finally, the postdoc will develop a model for "matchmaking" between plants and "bodyguards" to create new knowledge on how to combine plant resistance and biocontrol for optimal control of plant pathogens.

The project will involve both lab work (in vitro) and lab/greenhouse work (in vivo).

Bioclimatic factors will be used to investigate the role of climate factors in the evolution of plant resistance and biocontrol potential in Europe.

Your Background

Applicants must have a PhD in phytopathology, microbial ecology/evolution, or a related subject. Documented practical experience in research related to the study organisms Fragaria vesca and/or Aureobasidium pullulans will be highly advantageous in candidate evaluation. Similarly, documented experience in bioclimatic modeling is advantageous. We also value a strong interest in evolutionary ecology, evolutionary applications, and integrated plant protection.

Personal qualities such as the ability to collaborate well with local and international partners are necessary.

The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we are primarily seeking individuals who obtained their PhD no more than three years ago.

About Us

The postdoctoral position is based at the Department of Plant Protection Biology at SLU. This department is an interdisciplinary constellation where units for Integrated Plant Protection, Chemical Ecology, and Resistance Biology work to develop sustainable and innovative methods to meet the challenge of securing future plant protection.

In addition to local work, the postdoc is expected to participate in meetings with other international partners in the WildCrop project. These meetings may sometimes require travel.

More information about the department/section: Department of Plant Protection Biology | External website (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location:

Alnarp

Type of Employment:

Fixed-term employment 2 + 1 year, with the possibility of extension.

Extent:

100%

Entry:

April 1, 2025, or as agreed.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by January 17, 2025.

Trade Union Contacts:

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

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) plays a key role in the development of sustainable life, founded in science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable social 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 parks, 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 different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.