Vacant job

Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology

The Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology is part of Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC, https://www.upsc.se/ (https://www.upsc.se/)), a competence centre for experimental plant research and forest biotechnology in northern Sweden. UPSC aims to conduct excellent and innovative basic research and generate knowledge beneficial for forestry, agriculture, the environment, and society. We study plants from the cellular level up to eco-physiology, 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

We are looking for a Research Engineer to join the Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology.

Approximately 50% of the working time consists of managing plant cultures for research purposes in climate rooms and greenhouses. The tasks include planting, watering, and fertilizing plants, chemical and biological pest control, cleaning of cultivation areas, and some technical supervision. The work is performed both in teams and independently, in dialogue with requesters.

The remaining 50% of the working time involves various research and analysis assignments at the department, such as wood and sugar analyses and/or work with somatic embryos of spruce.

Your Background

A completed PhD in plant biology or biochemistry, along with experience in practical greenhouse cultivation and a genuine interest in supporting experimental plant research with a focus on trees. Good knowledge of plant biology, wood chemistry, sterile methods, and analytical methods for sugar chemistry is required.

Good proficiency in Swedish and English is a requirement. Personal qualities such as teamwork, service orientation, as well as accuracy and efficiency are highly valued.

About Us

UPSC consists of two departments 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 more than 40 different nationalities work here. We have about 30 group leaders, and our researchers have access to state-of-the-art analysis platforms and unique resources for, for example, 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 education and individual career guidance.

Read more about our benefits and what it is 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:

Permanent position. SLU may apply a probationary period.

Scope:

100%

Start Date:

According to agreement.

Application:

We welcome your application via the button below by 2026-06-11.

Union Representatives:

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 life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interactions between humans, animals, and ecosystems, and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. The main campuses are in Alnarp, Umeå, and Uppsala, but operations are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks, and educational sites throughout the country. SLU has over 4,000 employees, 6,000 students and doctoral students, and a turnover of over 4.5 billion SEK. The university invests in attractive environments on its campus areas. We work for an equal and inclusive work environment where open dialogue between people with different experiences lays the foundation for scientific rigor, creativity, and development. We therefore welcome people with different backgrounds and perspectives to apply for the current position.