Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology

The Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology is part of the Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC, https://www.upsc.se (https://www.upsc.se)), which is a competence center for experimental plant research and forest biotechnology in northern Sweden. UPSC aims to conduct excellent and innovative basic research and create knowledge beneficial for forestry, agriculture, the environment, and society. We study plants from the cellular level up to ecophysiology, and from basic research to industrial applications. We strive to understand plants' ability to grow, adapt, and acclimatize to a changing world, knowledge that can lead to better plant varieties, cultivation practices, or industrial processes.

About the Job

The Tree-ring Genomics group at Umeå Plant Science Center is seeking two postdoctoral researchers to analyze our collection of core samples from over 5,000 trees, primarily Norway spruce (Picea abies), from across southern Europe. The project's aim is to understand the genetic background of adaptation to a changing climate, with an overarching applied goal of identifying well-adapted trees for use in forestry.

The core samples have been collected from trees included in a multi-scale, complete (>5 cm dbh) circular plot design, allowing for the extraction of environmental signals at micro-site, regional, and continental levels. The majority of the core samples are measured but not fully cross-dated, and the postdoc is expected to complete the cross-dating to advance the project's main goals.

The postdoc is also expected to contribute to future field collections, which can be optimized based on experimental goals, and, if necessary, support and mentor students and interns.

While the postdoc is expected to contribute to the project as a whole, there is significant room to develop independent research interests (e.g., modeling forest dynamics, response patterns among species, etc.). This can be done using the existing data, but also by influencing the design of future field collections.

Your Background

Applicants should have a PhD in ecology, biology, or a related field. We are looking for highly motivated and team-oriented candidates with a background in dendroecology, regression modeling, and ecological fieldwork. Documented expertise in tree-ring analytical methods, particularly cross-dating, as well as strong statistical and computational skills are essential requirements for the position. Additional computational skills are advantageous.

Excellent proficiency in spoken and written English is required. Since postdoctoral positions are merit-based career positions for junior researchers, we primarily seek candidates whose PhD was obtained no more than three years ago.

About Us

UPSC consists of two institutions belonging to two universities, Umeå University (https://www.umu.se/ (https://www.umu.se/)) and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU; https://www.slu.se/ (https://www.slu.se/)). Approximately 200 people from over 40 different nationalities work here. We have about 30 group leaders, and our researchers have access to state-of-the-art analytical platforms, unique resources for tree genomics, and plant cultivation facilities. We strive to create a work environment that promotes collaboration and supports our researchers throughout their careers, including through training and individual career guidance.

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:

Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, SLU, Umeå.

Employment Type:

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

Extent:

100%

Start Date:

By agreement.

Application:

Welcome with your application via the application button below by 2026-01-21

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 parks, and educational sites across the country.

SLU has over 4,000 employees, 6,000 students, and doctoral students, and an annual turnover of over 4.5 billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campuses. We work 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.