Department of Plant Breeding

Are you the one we are looking for? A highly motivated postdoctoral researcher at the beginning of your career?

About the job

Prof. Gutierrez at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences is seeking a motivated, sharp postdoctoral researcher at the beginning of their career to support research in quantitative genetics with applications in genomic optimization of plant breeding strategies that contribute to new breeding tools and accelerate discoveries. The position will offer opportunities to explore several approaches to solve optimization strategies, including simulation-based analysis, big data analysis, statistical modeling, linear mixed models, and machine learning among others.

The position is well-suited for an individual interested in quantitative genetics and data analysis who wishes to join a productive and collaborative team of researchers enthusiastic about understanding complex traits and their interaction with the environment by using large datasets to solve applied breeding problems.

Your background

• A PhD in quantitative genetics, breeding, or statistics is required
• Good knowledge of theoretical and applied quantitative genetics
• Experience in handling and processing large genomic datasets is essential
• Excellent understanding of experimental design and modeling is necessary
• Experience with GWAS is an advantage
• Strong skills in command line and coding/programming (e.g., R, Python, Linux systems) with experience in software for processing and analyzing large genomic datasets
• Knowledge and experience in crop phenotyping under field conditions
• Documented experience in writing and publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Ability to work in teams as well as independently, organize and prioritize workload
• Excellent command of spoken and written English

The position is intended for a junior researcher, and we primarily seek individuals who have obtained their PhD within the last three years.

About us

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) promotes sustainable living through science and education. By emphasizing the interplay between humans, animals, ecosystems, and responsible use of natural resources, we support sustainable social development and improve living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but we also conduct activities at research stations, experimental fields, and educational sites across the country. SLU conducts groundbreaking research and is a global leader in several key research areas, including being the third university in the world for agriculture and forestry.

The Department of Plant Breeding teaches and conducts strategic and applied research on horticultural and agricultural crops with the aim of providing knowledge, tools, and products for a bio-based economy, improved environment, and human health. We utilize a wide range of both conventional and modern breeding technologies, from field trials and evaluation of genetic diversity to genetic, omics, biotechnological, biochemical, and physiological methods.

More information about the department/division: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/vaxtforadling/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/organisation/institutioner/vaxtforadling/)

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:

Alnarp

Employment form:

Fixed-term employment for 24 months, with the possibility of extension.

Scope:

100%

Start date:

February 2026 or by agreement.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2025-12-08.

Union contacts:

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 responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable social development and good living conditions on our planet. Main locations are Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental fields, and educational sites throughout 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 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.