Department of Soil and Environment

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to explore the dynamics of organic phosphorus in soils using stable isotopes.

About the Job

The Soil Biogeochemistry research group at the Department of Soil and Environment is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to investigate the dynamics of organic material in soils. The position is part of the ERC-funded project PHOSCYCLE. The postdoc will utilize the stable isotope signature to explore the turnover of organic phosphorus in soils and other organic pools. Additionally, the postdoc will study the factors that govern the stoichiometry of organic material in soils and the turnover of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The postdoc will work with soils from long-term environmental monitoring and sites that have experienced a transition from C3 to C4 vegetation. The postdoc will be part of a team of researchers working on related questions regarding the dynamics of organic carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in soils.

Your Background

We are looking for candidates with a PhD in biogeochemistry, environmental chemistry, soil science, or a related field. The degree should preferably have been obtained within the last three years. You have experience in research on organic material in soils using stable isotopes, and experience in subject-specific isotope analysis is advantageous. Experience in research on organic material in soils and the use of isotopes is required. Knowledge of modeling the dynamics of organic material in soils is a plus. You should be skilled in statistical analysis and in communicating and writing in English. We are looking for individuals with excellent scientific writing skills.

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

About Us

The Department of Soil and Environment is a leading soil science center, both nationally and internationally. We research soil properties and fundamental functions, as well as 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 decisions in agriculture, forestry, and urban environments. The working 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 forest soil biogeochemistry. 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 trials. In education, 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, cycling, and bioenergy. Our 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 Skara. Read more about the department here (https://www.slu.se/mark).

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%

Start Date:

As soon as possible, by agreement.

Application:

Welcome to submit your application via the application button below by 2025-07-15.

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 farms, and educational sites across 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 working 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 this position.