Vacant job

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/)), 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 to forestry, agriculture, the environment, and society. We study plants from the cellular level up to ecophysiology, as well as from basic research to industrial applications. We strive to understand plants' ability to grow, adapt, and acclimate to a changing world, knowledge that can lead to better plant varieties, cultivation practices, or industrial processes.

About the Job

Understanding the genomic basis of population variation and local adaptation based on genome sequencing and comparative genomics is a new frontier research area for genetic adaptation to climate change. This position involves plant genome assembly, annotation, whole-genome resequencing, and SNP calling, as well as the construction of genetic maps and the design of SNP genotyping tools, including SNP arrays. You will participate in conifer genomics projects including:

• Genome assembly and annotation;
• Whole-genome resequencing and SNP calling;
• Population and comparative genomics analyses to illuminate conifer adaptive evolution;
• Genome-wide association studies and genomic selection for quantitative traits including phenology, flowering, wood mass, growth, and adaptive traits.

Your Background

We are looking for highly motivated and team-oriented candidates with extensive experience in bioinformatics, including genome assembly, resequencing data analysis, GWAS, and the design of SNP arrays. To qualify, you must hold a PhD in subjects relevant to the position and have experience in tree genomics, preferably in conifers. Good skills in English communication and writing are required. Applicants with a valid driver's license are preferred.

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 analytical platforms and unique resources, such as those 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 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:

2026-07-01 or as agreed.

Application:

We welcome your application via the button below by 2026-06-18.

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 living, based on science and education. By focusing 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 activities 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 candidates, 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 diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply for this position.