Department of Plant Biology

About the Job

Our research group investigates how autophagy, a fundamental catabolic process crucial for longevity and vitality, has diversified within eukaryotes (PMID: 39757240). By studying autophagy from an evolutionary perspective, we identify molecular innovations that can be harnessed to improve crop performance in sustainable and climate-smart agriculture (PMID: 29365132). We are now seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our project, which aims to identify and characterize the molecular components underlying the diversification of plant autophagy in different lines of green plants. The position is located at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala.

Your Background

We are looking for a highly motivated, dedicated, and responsible researcher who is ready to actively drive the project forward. We value good collaboration skills, clear communication, initiative, and strong organizational abilities.

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in plant biology, preferably with a focus on molecular and cell biology
• Documented ability to conduct and complete research projects, demonstrated through publications in peer-reviewed international journals
• Ability to formulate a clear research vision that describes how previous experiences can drive the project forward
• Ability to generate testable hypotheses, identify suitable approaches, and perform thorough and comprehensive documentation of all research and data
• Excellent command of English, both spoken and written

Desirable:

• Experience in bioinformatics and/or structural biology
• Experience working with multiple plant models

As postdoctoral positions are career-developing roles for junior researchers, we prioritize applicants who have obtained their PhD within the last three years.

About Us

The department conducts fundamental and strategic research in plant biology and plant breeding on agricultural crops, forest trees, bioenergy plants, and model organisms. The Department of Plant Biology is located at Uppsala BioCenter, which brings together institutions with strong international expertise in plant biology, pathology, microbiology, food science, chemistry, and biotechnology with great relevance to agriculture and forestry. Uppsala BioCenter offers excellent facilities for plant breeding, including state-of-the-art greenhouses, climate chambers, and laboratories for molecular genetics and microscopy.

The department is responsible for fundamental and advanced courses in general and molecular genetics, cell biology, plant physiology, plant breeding, and molecular plant interactions. Additionally, the department contributes to several educational programs in collaboration with other institutions. More information about the department: Department of Plant Biology (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Read more about our benefits and what it's 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 possible extension.

Extent:

100%.

Start Date:

By agreement.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2026-01-22. You apply by clicking the button below.

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, grounded in 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 fields, and educational sites throughout the country.

SLU has over 4000 employees, 6000 students, and doctoral candidates, and a turnover of more than 4.5 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.