Vacant job

The Baltic Nest Institute (BNI), hosted by the Baltic Sea Centre at Stockholm University (BSC), conducts research on the Baltic Sea environment and supports research and education on the Baltic Sea across various departments at Stockholm University (SU). The BSC focuses on science communication to authorities and other stakeholders. The BNI focuses on the large-scale effects of nutrient inflow and climate change on the Baltic Sea through modeling and data analysis to support work against eutrophication. The BNI's work has, for example, resulted in quantitative caps on nutrient emissions that have been politically agreed upon throughout the region. The BSC also has a very active group for coastal ecosystems focusing on the effects of a range of different anthropogenic stress factors and on different management options to improve the condition of these ecosystems. Furthermore, the BSC plays a coordinating role in SU's marine activities within the framework of the "Center for Coastal Ecosystem and Climate Change Research".

Read more about us at the Baltic Sea Centre at Stockholm University.

Project Description

The Baltic Sea's coastal ecosystems have significant ecological and societal value, and there is a growing need for scientific support for the effective management and restoration of coastal environments. This applies especially to coastal vegetation habitats, which are important for biodiversity and simultaneously affect the exchange of greenhouse gases between the sea and the atmosphere, playing a crucial role in natural carbon sequestration. At the coast, the results of restoration efforts depend on both local environmental conditions and connections to sea areas further offshore, meaning that the conditions for success can be limited or enhanced by processes occurring far beyond the site of an action. For example, large parts of the Baltic Sea coast and archipelago are burdened by high nutrient concentrations offshore, while other areas are more affected by local nutrient sources.

The project aims to quantitatively investigate the temporal and spatial connections between conditions in the open Baltic Sea and coastal vegetation habitats, using existing observed and modeled datasets at various temporal and spatial scales. The purpose is to improve the understanding of how local, regional, and large-scale factors affect underwater vegetation and how this in turn affects the turnover of greenhouse gases and the vegetation's function as a natural carbon sink. The goal is to support the effective management of coastal environments in the Baltic Sea and other seas.

Responsibilities

The research will involve the collection, management, and analysis of existing datasets on benthic vegetation, oceanography, and climate variables from the Baltic Sea.

Specific tasks include:

• Spatial analyses and/or time-series analyses of ecological data
• Data collection and management
• Writing scientific articles for international journals
• Collaboration with researchers at the Baltic Sea Centre
• Engagement in research communication to various target groups to disseminate project results.

Qualifications

To be eligible for employment as a postdoctoral researcher, a PhD degree or a foreign degree assessed as equivalent to a relevant PhD is required. The degree must be completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Selection Criteria

It is meritorious if the PhD or equivalent was completed no more than three years before the last day of application. If there are special reasons, a previously completed degree may also be considered meritorious. Special reasons include leave due to illness, parental leave, trust positions within trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

The applicant must have a PhD in marine or limnic ecology or related fields.

In the appointment, particular weight will be attached to scientific skill as listed below.

The successful candidate should have one or more of the following merits:

• Experience and knowledge in marine and/or freshwater ecology, primarily ecology in benthic ecosystems.
• Good knowledge of the Baltic Sea coastal areas or similar areas.
• Experience and skill in numerical data analysis.
• Experience with GIS and geographic analyses.
• Ability to communicate in English, both written and oral.
• Good social competence and ability to work in a multicultural research team.
• Publications in a relevant field.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is for a fixed term of two years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date as soon as possible or as agreed.

We Offer

Here you will find the dynamic interplay between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and enjoy favorable conditions. The university is located in the National Urban Park with good connections to the city center.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination, providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Information about the position can be obtained from Sofia Wikström, [email protected], or Bo Gustafsson, [email protected].

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a cover letter and CV, as well as the attachments requested in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring the application is complete and at the university's disposal no later than the last day of application.

Instructions for applicants are available on the webpage: how to apply for a position.

Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and truth-seeking.