Department of Forest Ecology and Management

Do you want to be part of the future and shape sustainable forest use? We are recruiting a three-year postdoctoral researcher for modeling growth trends in boreal forests. This postdoc is part of the Future Silviculture (https://www.slu.se/Collaborative-Centres-and-Projects/wiforce/about-us) research program within the Wallenberg Initiative for Forest Research. You will be involved in this research program, which focuses on linking research on how trees, soil, and landscapes function to the sustainable use of forests, with the aim of developing future forest management methods.

About the job

Recently, Swedish and other Nordic forests have shown an unexpected downward trend in tree growth. This could have serious consequences for the forestry industry and national carbon budgets. What makes it even more concerning is that we do not yet understand the causes of the decline and what we can do about it. Therefore, we urgently need to better understand the causes and mechanisms that drive long-term forest growth – which is the focus of this project.

Fortunately, we have a wealth of growth data from the National Forest Inventory (NFI), soil and climate data, as well as extensive datasets from many long-term experiments. We also have hypotheses, such as water scarcity, dry air, and nutrient limitation. The challenge is to develop a model to test the hypotheses and quantify the key factors that explain the previous trends and enable us to predict future tree growth. In preliminary work, we have developed a process-based model applied to pine stands (Fransson et al. 2024. bioRxiv 2023.10.11.561680), which can be further developed for this project. Other approaches, such as semi-empirical models based on light use efficiency or empirical regression models, may also be possible. In any case, it will be crucial to consider the multiple and interacting environmental factors that affect growth. This work is a central component of the larger research program Future Silviculture, aimed at improving our understanding of the ecophysiological basis for tree growth and forest management methods. Ultimately, our results should be used to guide the adaptation of forest management to climate change and societal demands.

The position will be based at SLU in Umeå. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to visit the main supervisor Oskar Franklin at IIASA in Austria. IIASA is a leading institute for research on global change and systems modeling and an important partner for SLU.

We are looking for

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on a model to quantify the key factors explaining growth trends in Swedish forests. A process-based model can be used, such as (Fransson et al. 2024. bioRxiv 2023.10.11.561680), or another method, such as semi-empirical models based on light use efficiency or empirical regression models. The primary goal is to interpret the observed growth trends in a large number of NFI plots in terms of the effects of environmental factors. Model formulation, analysis, and preparation of publications will be done in collaboration with supervisors and other researchers in the Future Silviculture project. Although the main focus of the work will be on modeling and data analysis, communication and idea exchange with the empirical researchers in the project are also important.

Your background

The qualifications required for this position are:

• A PhD in a field such as ecological, vegetation, or forest modeling, or any relevant study area resulting in relevant skills for the postdoctoral project area.
• Experience in model development, including mathematical, statistical, and programming expertise demonstrated through relevant publications.
• Experience in data analysis and model calibration.
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken.

Since postdoctoral positions are career-developing positions for junior researchers, we primarily seek candidates with a PhD that is no more than three years old.

About us

The postdoc will be employed at the Department of Forest Ecology and Management at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Umeå.

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 best be managed today and in the future. For more information about the department, see: here (http://www.slu.se/institutioner/skogens-ekologi-skotsel/).

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

Location:

Umeå

Employment form:

Fixed-term employment for 3 years

Extent:

100%

Start date:

In spring 2025, by agreement.

Application:

Welcome to submit your application via the application button below by 2025-02-11.

Your application should be written in English and include: (1) a cover letter summarizing your research results and how you can contribute to the research project, (2) Curriculum Vitae, (3) publication list, (4) degree certificates and publications, and (5) contact details for 2-3 references.

Union contacts:

Here (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 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 students, with 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 with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.