Project Assistant for Pollen Measurement at Umeå University

Umeå University is one of Sweden's largest institutions of higher education with over 37,000 students and approximately 4,700 employees. The university offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several scientific fields, and it was here that the groundbreaking discovery of the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, collaborate, and exchange knowledge, fostering a dynamic and open culture.

The societal transformation and significant green investments we see in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, this means conducting research on – and within – a society in transformation. It is also about delivering education for regions that need to expand quickly and sustainably. This is where the future is created.

Are you interested in learning more? Read more here (https://www.umu.se/jobba-hos-oss/om-universitetet-som-arbetsplats/).

About the Position

The Department of Ideas and Social Studies is part of Umeå University's Faculty of Humanities and has about 110 employees. The department brings together researchers, teachers, and students in the fields of archaeology, environmental archaeology, philosophy, history, educational science, intellectual history, religious studies, and theology under one roof.

We are now looking for a project assistant to manage pollen measurement in northern Sweden. The position is temporary, lasting 5 months.

Job Responsibilities

During the pollen season, pollen is measured using Burkard traps and samples are analyzed from about 5 different measurement stations primarily in northern Sweden. During the pollen season, you will mainly work at a microscope analyzing pollen preparations. Your tasks include emptying the pollen trap every weekday morning, as well as receiving and analyzing samples from other measurement stations. Other tasks at the Environmental Archaeological Laboratory (MAL) may be included.

Qualifications

We are looking for someone with a master's degree in geology, paleoecology, biology, archaeology, or another relevant field for the position. Experience with handling Burkard traps and analyzing recent (contemporary) pollen for allergy forecasting is required, as well as familiarity with microscopes and laboratory work.

It is essential to have documented experience in pollen species identification and qualified training in pollen measurement (pollen analyst course). The ability to communicate orally and in writing in Swedish is a requirement.

Flexibility regarding vacation times is necessary as the pollen season extends over the summer. We place great importance on personal qualities and are looking for a meticulous and responsible person with the ability to work independently.

Other Desired Qualifications

Experience working with Microsoft Excel is an advantage. Experience with similar tasks is also meritorious.

Application

Applications must be written in Swedish and include:

• A personal letter describing qualifications and motivation for why you are interested in the position (1-2 pages)
• CV
• A copy of your degree certificate

Applications should be submitted via the Varbi application system and must be received by 2026-03-09.

Additional Information

Special fixed-term employment, 100% for 5 months. Start date 2026-04-01 or by agreement.

Pollen measurements in Umeå and northern Sweden are part of a nationwide network of about twenty measurement stations and have one of the longest measurement series in Sweden. The measurements in Umeå contribute to long-term environmental monitoring in the country as they also serve as important documentation of the region's pollen flow and its potential changes over time.

The work with pollen analyses is carried out at the Environmental Archaeological Laboratory (MAL), which is a research infrastructure that conducts and supports commissioned research in collaboration within cultural and natural resource management. For more information, see here (https://www.umu.se/forskning/infrastruktur/mal/).

For more information, please contact the head of MAL, Ivanka Hristova, at 090-786 73 34, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

We look forward to your application!

Umeå University aims to provide an equal and equitable environment where open conversations between people with different backgrounds and perspectives lay the foundation for learning, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply for this position.

To staffing and recruitment companies and to you as a seller: We kindly but firmly request no direct contact with staffing and recruitment companies or sellers of additional job advertisements.