Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environment

The Department of Wildlife, Fish and Environment, SLU, Umeå, is seeking a researcher for a four-month position in the project "Revealing the Hidden Costs of Brain Size in a Changing World." The project's focus is to investigate whether and how the inherent traits of individual animals affect their vulnerability to exposure to new substances (e.g., microcompounds), and how these differences in vulnerability, in turn, affect ecosystem function. The researcher will contribute to studies examining the effects of environmentally relevant concentrations of microcompounds on the behavior and physiology of aquatic species. Additionally, the researcher will lead research aimed at understanding the interfaces between science, politics, and society, using concepts such as Earth System Governance and Planetary Boundaries. More specifically, this involves using a social-ecological systems perspective to address the ongoing crisis regarding chemical pollution.

About the Job

The researcher will conduct research and development within the framework of "environmental effects of new substances in ecosystems." The main focus will be on improving methods for identifying, prioritizing, and addressing environmental effects of pollution, for example through better design of effect studies and more accurate risk assessments. We encourage research that involves both external stakeholders and other researchers (both internal and external). Finally, the researcher is expected to seek their own research grants and actively communicate the research to society.

Your Background

The applicant should have well-developed skills in oral and written communication in English. Previous successful collaborations with stakeholders or with national and international researchers will be important for the position. We are looking for a highly motivated, independent, and team-oriented candidate with documented experience in behavioral ecology, research on chemical pollution, and/or the concepts of Earth System Governance and Planetary Boundaries. Experience working at the intersection of science, politics, and society is important for the position, with a particular focus on issues of power, intersectionality, and environmental justice. Previous solid experience in research communication, sustainability science, and social-ecological perspectives will be considered an asset. A PhD in a relevant subject is required for the position.

About Us

The department offers a creative and stimulating environment and conducts internationally recognized applied and fundamental research, education, and environmental monitoring in the following areas: restoration ecology, aquatic ecology, molecular ecology, and zooecology (see here (https://www.slu.se/institutioner/vilt-fisk-miljo/forskning/amnesomraden/)). The department has a large proportion of international staff and well-established national and international collaborations with opportunities for rewarding exchanges.

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 Type:

Fixed-term employment, 4 months during the period December 2025 – March 2026.

Extent:

100%

Start Date:

By agreement.

Application:

We welcome your application via the application button below by 2025-12-05.

Union Contacts:

Here (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 operations are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, 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 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.