Postdoctoral Researcher – Crop Systems Without Pesticides

We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher interested in evaluating effects and exploring solutions for plant protection considering the removal of chemical pesticides from cropping systems. You will be part of a strong international and interdisciplinary research environment working with applied agroecological research.

About the Position

Pests and weeds cause significant yield losses in crop production. Chemical pesticides have limited these losses but are increasingly scrutinized and regulated due to risks to the environment and human health. The lack of new modes of action, rising registration costs, and the development of resistance in weeds and pests further limit the future prospects of relying on chemical pesticides for plant protection. There is an urgent need to evaluate the consequences for crop production of the removal of chemical pesticides from cropping systems, as well as to identify and test sustainable solutions for plant protection without chemical pesticides, such as alternatives and changes in cropping systems based on ecological knowledge.

The postdoctoral researcher will analyze the effects of removing chemical pesticides from crop production, using Swedish agriculture as an example. Focusing on insecticides, the postdoctoral researcher will then work with researchers and stakeholders to identify the most effective and viable alternatives to chemical pesticides against insects and empirically test and evaluate these alternatives. The postdoctoral researcher will coordinate a synthesis of scientific and practitioner knowledge and possible innovations, as well as design, implement, and analyze field trials. The postdoctoral researcher will publish and disseminate results in collaboration with the research group. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to contribute to the group's activities, assist in mentoring students, and communicate with stakeholders. Authorities, agricultural advisory companies, farmers, and agricultural organizations will be engaged in the project. The postdoctoral researcher will be linked to an existing extensive network of national and international researchers in the field of sustainable plant protection, such as the European Research Alliance Towards Chemical Pesticide Free Agriculture.

Your Background

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who actively pursues an academic career. You should have documented research experience and an interest in the research area. The position requires a PhD in ecology, agricultural entomology, environmental science, agronomy, or a related field. You should have documented ability to independently initiate, conduct, and complete research projects as well as generate and publish results in international peer-reviewed journals. Written and oral communication skills at an academic level in English are required, as well as relevant skills in statistical analysis. The candidate is expected to be able and willing to take initiative and work both independently and in teams. Inter- and transdisciplinary experience and experience in designing, implementing, and reporting field-based research in agricultural entomology or ecology are considered advantageous.

Selection of Applicants

The selection of applicants is based on your written application and interviews. The application should be written in English and include:

1. a description of academic interests and why the applicant is interested in this position, specifying the applicant's expertise in the research area (max 5000 characters including spaces)
2. Curriculum Vitae including a complete publication list divided into peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed publications
3. contact information for two professional references
4. copies of degree certificates and transcripts from undergraduate and graduate studies.

The description should particularly highlight your current research interests, your expertise, and other activities relevant to the position. Special emphasis will be placed on your written motivation describing your current research interests as well as competencies and interest in the research area. We also value personal qualities such as the ability to collaborate.

About Us

The position is located at the Department of Ecology, which is part of the Ecological Centre at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala, Sweden. The postdoctoral researcher will join a dynamic international and interdisciplinary research environment with an extensive national and international network focused on sustainable agriculture. At the Ecological Centre, we conduct research for sustainable agriculture, forestry, and conservation of biodiversity. Solutions are sought that will produce sufficient food sustainably, mitigate climate change, conserve threatened species, and support biodiversity and ecosystem services. Active dissemination, outreach activities, and close contacts with stakeholders in society are important activities. Based on extensive national and international research collaborations, we build research and communication that drives ecology as a science and promotes sustainable agriculture.

More information about the department: https://www.slu.se/institutioner/ekologi/ (https://www.slu.se/institutioner/ekologi/)

More about working at SLU: https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/ (https://www.slu.se/om-slu/jobba-pa-slu/)

Location:

Uppsala.

Employment Form:

Postdoctoral researcher. Fixed-term employment for 2 years with a possible extension.

Extent:

100%.

Start Date:

August 2026, or by agreement

Application:

We welcome your application via the application button below by 2026-04-07.

Union Contact Persons:

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 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 across the country.

SLU has over 4000 employees, 6000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over 4.5 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 integrity, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.